Fundraiser to help former Prospect football tackle
Curtis Thomas was a lineman with the Prospect Knights football team that won the state championship in 2005.
The former tackle now faces a tougher opponent than any he faced on the gridiron: a rare form of brain cancer.
Thomas was diagnosed last year with a grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma tumor in the thalamus of his brain. Although he continues to undergo intensive radiation and chemotherapy treatment, the cancer has inflamed his optic nerve, leaving him legally blind.
In May, he returned to Prospect to give a motivational talk to the varsity football players. Thomas’ illness struck just after he had graduated from the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and had started his career as an engineer.
His family and friends, however, are not sitting on the sidelines. They have organized a “Team Curtis” fundraiser. It takes place from 1-5 p.m. Aug. 14 in the Prospect High School field house.
The Sunday afternoon event will feature food provided by Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue in Elk Grove Village and Capannari’s Ice Cream from Mount Prospect. A variety of sports packages will be offered in a silent auction.
A children’s area will feature games, crafts, face painting and a magician, while adults take in live music performed by the band, Saturday Night Gravy, which plays classic rock, including hits by Creedence Clearwater Revival and LynyardSkynard.
A suggested donation is $20 per person and $10 for children under 12, while those under 5 are admitted free.
Thomas has been unable to work and is living with his family in Mount Prospect while he adjusts to life with a vision impairment and his continued cancer treatment.
“He’s the most upbeat person; he always has a smile on his face,” says Prospect classmate Mike O’Brien of Chicago. “He’s always had a special personality, with tons of friends.”
Thomas is the youngest of six children who grew up in Mount Prospect. His mother, Patricia, works at Van Driel’s Medical Supply in the village, and the family is well known as active members at St. Raymond’s Church.
“The proceeds will help ease the tremendous financial burden his treatment regime requires,” says his sister, Ginny Thomas, “and other medical expenses — not covered by insurance — in order to beat this type of rare brain cancer. “
She adds that funds also will be set aside for any future services Thomas will need as he adapts to his vision impairment.
To offer support to Thomas and his family members, visit his “Team Curtis” Facebook page. Make checks payable to his sister, Clare Thomas, noting the Curtis B. Thomas benefit in the subject line. Mail donations to Chrissy Wiatr, 4121 Lindenwood Lane, Northbrook, IL, 60062.