Bear Necessities coordinates Batavia teen's 'Hockey Fights Cancer' Bear Hug

Fifteen-year old Garrett Glatzhofer lives in Batavia with his parents, Natascha and Gary Glatzhofer. He was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in early January and has frequent chemotherapy treatments.

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation reached out to Garrett's family to coordinate his special "Bear Hug" experience. The Chicago-based nonprofit, which is dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer while providing hope and support to families, helps kids to rediscover their childhood through these customized events.

According to Garrett, "I've never been to a Blackhawks game before so I was bursting with excitement when Bear Necessities asked if I would like to attend for 'Hockey Fights Cancer'!"

The week before, Garrett had three chemotherapy treatments just three days before the Blackhawks game, but was in high spirits as soon as he got to the game.

At "Hockey Fights Cancer," Garrett walked the purple carpet on the ice with other cancer fighters before the game started, had his jersey signed and even talked with Patrick Kane.

Bear Necessities and the Blackhawks team set his family up with sky box seating on the second level with a private balcony, Chicago-style catering and a personal waiter while enjoying the game.

Garrett said, "I have not been this happy in a while and the day made my journey with cancer a little bit easier."

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1992 by Kathleen A. Casey. The foundation is named in memory of her 8-year-old son, Barrett "Bear" Krupa, who died after a courageous 5½ year battle with Wilms Tumor, a pediatric cancer.

Prior to his death on Jan. 9, 1993, Bear and his mother discussed and planned the formation of Bear Necessities. During his long stay in the hospital, Bear expressed more concern for other pediatric cancer patients than he did for himself. He and his mother learned of the many hidden needs of both patient, family members, and the needs of the hospital facilities as well.

Today, Bear Necessities operates two programs, "Bear Hugs" and "Bear Discoveries." While the foundation is funding cutting-edge research to end pediatric cancer, it's also providing for the immediate needs of the children and families battling the disease.

Visit www.bearnecessities.org.