News and TV Alert: 5th Annual Fire Up A Cure at SXU generates media buzz
The Cure It Foundation's Fire Up A Cure event hosted at Saint Xavier University (SXU) on Saturday, July 30 was a huge success and had more than 1,000 people in attendance. This fundraising event raised more than $80,000 for pediatric cancer research trials. As a result, it generated a lot of buzz within the media and truly showcased the support of the surrounding local communities. The following media placements featured this profound event:
- ABC 7 Chicago
- FOX 32 Good Morning Chicago (July 18 broadcast)
- FOX 32 Chicago (July 30 broadcast)
- FOX 32 Good Morning Chicago (August 1 at 7:30 a.m. broadcast)
- FOX 32 Good Morning Chicago (August 1 at 9:30 a.m. broadcast)
- NBC 5 Chicago Making a Difference (July 11 broadcast)
- NBC 5 Chicago (July 26 broadcast)
- NBC 5 Chicago (July 27 broadcast)
- NBC 5 Chicago (July 30 broadcast)
- WGN-TV
- Chicago Tribune
- Daily Southtown (published July 27)
- Daily Southtown (published July 30)
- DNAinfo Chicago (published July 1)
- DNAinfo Chicago (published July 27)
- Beverly Review
- Patch
- BAPA/The Villager
- Daily Herald (print only)
During the event, Chicago-area firefighters will compete in a series of challenges while raising money to help fight pediatric cancer. Events will include a fire truck pull, a hot wing eating contest sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings, an obstacle course, inflatable jousting, tug-of-war, and more. Pediatric cancer patients will serve as honorary coaches for each team.
This year we're so pleased to announce the addition of 501st Legion Midwest Garrison, which is a worldwide Star Wars costuming organization comprised of and operated by Star Wars fans. The force will be with ALL kids at the event as they enjoy interacting with numerous Star Wars characters throughout the fun-filled day. Additionally, Fire Up A Cure will proudly award up to two survivors of childhood cancer with the inaugural 'Neil Spore First Responder Scholarship', aiding young adults as they pursue a career as a first responder.
DJ will provide music as children and their families enjoy Irish dancers, raffles, a reptile show, face painting, arts and crafts, inflatable slides and attractions, a kids' fire pole to slide down, real fire trucks to explore, split the pot and much more. Several food trucks, including Chuck's Southern Comforts Café and Rainbow Cone, as well as vendors will also be available.
"This foundation is built around a team of people who care about the future of fighters and survivors of childhood cancer," said Cure It Foundation Founder Dr. Jason Canner. "I feel like the firefighters and people touched directly by pediatric cancer -- doctors, nurses and family members -- have really come together to bring an amazing event to Saint Xavier University. What makes this event special is that the kids will always be the core of the team."