Cancer is something that hits far too close to home for the Rizzo family. At the age of 18 and on the cusp of his professional baseball career with the Boston Red Sox organization, Anthony Rizzo was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. His grandmother was simultaneously battling breast cancer.
In September of 2008, Rizzo was told he was in remission. “At that point I knew I wanted to become a role model to help cancer patients and their families,” said Rizzo. Thus, in 2012, the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation began.
Founded by the Chicago Cubs first baseman, the organization is devoted to raising money for cancer research and providing support to children and families battling the disease.
On June 7, @properties’ nonprofit foundation, @gives back, partnered with the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation for the cancer-kicking fundraising event Strike Out Cancer. More than 300 guests attended the lively evening held at Ravenswood’s Architectural Artifacts. The event raised $130,000 for Rizzo’s Foundation.
The evening included a VIP reception with the one and only #44 himself. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction, live entertainment, and appetizers.
More from Make It Better:
- Chicago Cubs Go Bald to Support Pediatric Cancer Research
- Michael Phelps and Jason Day Return to Illinois for Golf.Give.Gala
- Channeling the Power of Debate to Transform Students’ Futures
Emily Stone is Associate Editor at Make It Better. She earned a degree in journalism from Elon University in North Carolina. Along with writing, Stone has a passion for digital storytelling and photography. Her work is published in Chicago Athlete Magazine. Stone is a supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Stone is a fluent Spanish speaker who in her free time loves a good dance class.
