What a way to start the summer!
A total of $725,050 was raised at this evening's Phillies Phestival, the annual autograph and auction party to help strike out ALS - the devastating, always-fatal, progressive neuromuscular disorder.
Over 4,000 fans attended the charity event at Citizens Bank Park, with monies raised to provide much-needed research, patient care and services for ALS patients in the Greater Philadelphia area. Since the Phillies adopted ALS as their primary charity in 1984, over $18 million has been raised for the fight against the disease.
"This may be the first Phillies Phestival for many players, fans, and ALS families, but it continues a three-decade commitment by the Phillies organization to do everything in their power to Strike Out ALS," said Ellyn Phillips, President of The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter. "Every year, the Phillies find new ways to go above and beyond to raise money and awareness for the ALS cause and because of their players and their fans today, ALS families in our area will continue to have access to excellent care and research programs."
There were many contributors to the cause including Grand Slam Sponsor Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP and All-Star Sponsor NBC Sports Philadelphia. In addition, Home Run Sponsors included: Hatfield Quality Meats, Independence Blue Cross, in Memory of Anne and Ron Krancer, Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Macy's, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, and UFCW Local 1776.
"This cause is very personal to the Phillies," said John Weber, President, Phillies Charities, Inc. "Over the years, we have come to know far too many patients who have succumbed to this dreadful disease, most recently Wes Rose, a long-time patient, advocate and friend of the Phillies. In honor of Wes and the many families battling ALS, we remain committed to making a difference. Thank you to the many fans and sponsors who attended tonight's Phestival and continue to show their tremendous support."
For more information on The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter, visit www.alsphiladelphia.org.