Jacob Corona, 7, who was diagnosed last year with leukemia, got to throw out the first pitch and sing the national anthem at a special baseball fundraiser for him June 15.
The event, co-hosted by Unity in Community Foundation and the Chicago Dogs baseball team, raised about $2,000 for Jacob’s family, said foundation member Tom Brimie. “It will help his family cover bills and expenses.”
Another member, Ron Schammert, said Jacob, of Schiller Park, was all smiles during the fundraiser, despite the cold weather and dreary skies.
“There was constant communication with the Dogs organization during the day in case there was a potential cancellation due to weather,” Schammert said. “Despite the weather, Jacob was the highlight of the night.”
The game went off as scheduled, with Jacob having a large group of family members with him.
“Jacob’s mom and aunt were able to stand alongside him on the sidelines with the Chicago Dogs for the ‘National Anthem,’” Schammert said. “It was really cool. He had a blast.”
The Franklin Park Vipers baseball team also attended to show its support for Jacob.
“It was a very positive environment and a lot of energy,” Schammert said.
Linda Corona, Jacob’s mom, said his saga began when he was often sick with colds and high fevers.Even after many tests, his doctor wasn’t sure what was wrong, but then he was diagnosed at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago.
“They found out that he had leukemia,” she said. “He’s still fighting, but he’s been better after his bone marrow transplant.”
Brimie said Unity in Community Foundation will probably have another fundraiser for Jacob this summer, but nothing is planned yet.
“The Chicago Dogs were really good to us,” Brimie said. “Everyone at the game was there to support Jacob.”
Chicago Tribune Sports
The Unity in Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps Leyden Township residents. For more information, visit theunityincommunity.org.