Benefit to help Des Plaines resident buy medivan

The Des Plaines community will come together for a fundraiser Saturday supporting Mike Schwass, a former Notre Dame High School hockey player who became a quadriplegic after a hockey accident.

Schwass, a lifelong Des Plaines resident, wrote the book, "Don't Blame The Game," telling the story about how he coped with his physical limitations.

Schwass was a star forward for Notre Dame High School in 1975 when he sustained a broken neck during a game against Glenbrook North High School. The accident left him paralyzed.

Schwass is in need of a new medivan and help with medical bills, family members said.

His family organized the fundraiser for him, which takes place 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday at Notre Dame High School, 7655 W. Dempster St., Niles.

Ticket price is $15. The event includes a silent auction, food and drinks, raffle, blackjack and live music. For more information, call (847) 827-5221 or visit the website dontblamethegame.com