Sign up for motorcycle ride to benefit NCH

Northwest Community Healthcare Foundation will be the beneficiary of the third annual Monk's Ride, a community event that will take place Sunday, Aug. 20, in Algonquin to support NCH and honor the late Dennis "Monk" Heidmann, a former lung cancer patient at NCH.

Riders register and pay a donation to participate - cars, vans, trucks are welcome as well. Signup begins at 9:30 a.m. at Tavern at the Bridge, 101 E. Algonquin Road, in Algonquin.

The ride begins at 10 a.m., with stops along the way, and ends at Skeeters Saloon, 1691 Elgin Road (Route 25) in Carpentersville, where an auction and other festivities will take place.

Last year, 150 riders raised more than $5,500, which went directly to the NCH Radiation Oncology Program, where "Monk" was diagnosed and treated for lung cancer in 2011. More than $18,000 has been raised since the ride's inception in 2014.

"The money is going right to Northwest Community Hospital, where Monk got excellent treatment," his wife, Peggy Heidmann, said. "Everyone loved Monk, and now we have this tribute to him."

"We are very grateful to Peggy and her family for organizing such a successful event every year in memory of her husband and in honor of the physicians, nurses and staff who cared for Monk," Executive Director Dave Ungurean, NCH Foundation, said.

"Proceeds from the event continue to support the excellent care provided by our Radiation Oncology team at NCH."

Several "Monk" items will be auctioned off at Skeeters, such as football memorabilia from his semipro football days and T-shirts bearing his image. For informaiton, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1807304356266193/?active_tab=discussion.