Neighbor helps Arlington Heights boy in need of heart transplant

An Arlington Heights man is organizing a fundraiser to help defray medical expenses for his neighbor, an 8-year-old boy in need of a heart transplant.

David Kane is hoping area residents - especially bikers and country music fans - come out to City Limits Harley-Davidson in Palatine on July 26 to show their support for A.J. Winter, who is on a waiting list for a new heart.

The event, scheduled from noon to 5 p.m., will feature a raffle of items donated by local businesses. The top prize is four tickets to a Miranda Lambert concert donated by country music radio station US-99. The RAM Restaurant & Brewery in Schaumburg is donating a brewery tour and dinner for four.

The restaurant also is providing beer for sale at the event, with all proceeds going to the fundraiser.

There will be a "best bike" contest, where bikers can pay to have their motorcycles judged by the City Limits staff. The winner gets $500.

Kane and his wife live near A.J. and his family at The Pointe Apartments, located near Rand Road and Route 53.

"When you look at A.J., your heart goes out to him," Kane said. "The bottom line is he's a little boy, so I really felt compelled to try to do something that'd be helpful to the family to lessen the load financially in any way possible."

Kane said the staff at City Limits, at 2015 N. Rand Road, were enthusiastic about hosting the event. It is scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. in the parking lot.

"Bikers are really known for all kinds of helping. Bikers are just that way. We thought it would be a great location."

For more information, call Kane at (224) 523-6975 or email at djk.norskman@mac.com.