Annual Pitch in for Charity funds help grant wish for boy battling genetic disorder
The Peoria Chiefs will present the funds received from the 2009 Peoria Chiefs Pitch in for Charity event. Chiefs President Rocky Vonachen and lovable Chiefs mascot Homer will present a check for more than $7,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois as part of this season-long fundraising partnership. Throughout the 2009 season, the Peoria Chiefs held a Pitch-In for Charity after each fireworks show. Tennis balls were sold for $1 each with targets set up throughout the infield. All the proceeds for each Pitch-In for Charity benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois. In addition, a special Chicago Cubs jersey auction was held in June after the game with all proceeds benefitting Make-A-Wish. Mr. Vonachen notes, “The Peoria Chiefs are all about making summer wishes come true at the ballpark. Our support of Make-A-Wish is a natural extension of our mission and we are delighted to make a difference in our community.”
With the money raised this season, the Peoria Chiefs were able to support wishes like those of Samuel, age 10 of Carlinville. At four months old, Samuel was diagnosed with Hurlers syndrome which is a genetic disorder that stunts growth and development. Samuel received chemotherapy and is currently taking medication and seeing doctors regularly. Although Samuel tires easily and cannot use one of his hands, he remains a cheerful and optimistic young boy. When asked to wish BIG, Samuel decided he wanted to meet his all time favorite team, the Chicago Cubs! Samuel received a tour of Wrigley Field and also got to watch his favorite players warm-up. After the game, Samuel got the chance to meet his idol, Geovany Soto, and the rest of the gang. Samuel even got to pal around with Ron Santo and wear his headset. The day was extra special because it was also Samuel’s birthday.
Several Make-A-Wish representatives and area wish children plan to be in attendance in appreciation of the Peoria Chiefs support. That includes Logan, age 9, of Green Valley who received his wish earlier this year to go to the St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training in Jupiter, Florida.