Local firefighters fight pediatric cancer at fifth annual Fire Up A Cure
What do Star Wars characters, local firefighters, and sports team mascots all have in common? They will all participate in The Cure It Foundation's fifth annual Fire Up A Cure event on Saturday, July 30 that brings together nearly 25 teams of firefighters from across Illinois competing in a series of challenges such as a fire truck pull, hot wing eating contest sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings, obstacle course, inflatable jousting, tug-of-war, and more to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer clinical trials and to help children battling the disease.
Pediatric cancer patients serve as honorary coaches for each team. This one-of-a-kind event is open to the public and scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Saint Xavier University's Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. Tickets can purchased ahead of time by visiting The Cure It Foundation's website or at the door on July 30.
This year we're so pleased to announce the addition of 501st Legion Midwest Garrison, which is a worldwide Star Wars costuming organization comprised of and operated by Star Wars fans. The force will be with ALL kids at the event as they enjoy interacting with numerous Star Wars characters throughout the fun-filled day. Additionally, Fire Up A Cure will proudly award up to two survivors of childhood cancer with the inaugural Neil Spore First Responder Scholarship, aiding young adults as they pursue a career as a first responder.
A DJ will provide music as children and their families will also enjoy Irish dancers, raffles, a reptile show, face painting, arts and crafts, inflatable slides and attractions, a kids' fire pole to slide down, real fire trucks to explore, split the pot and much more. Several food trucks, including Chuck's Southern Comforts Café and Rainbow Cone, and vendors will also be available.
"This foundation is built around a team of people who care about the future of fighters and survivors of childhood cancer," said Cure It Foundation founder Dr. Jason Canner. "I feel like the firefighters and people touched directly by pediatric cancer - doctors, nurses and family members - have really come together to bring an amazing event to Saint Xavier University. What makes this event special is that the kids will always be the core of the team."
For information, please contact Amy Kazmierowicz at (773) 954-8401 or amy@cureitfoundation.org.