Dempster Family Foundation Launch

Hub 51 Chicago was packed with close to 500 family members, friends and foundation supporters who came out to the official launch party for The Ryan and Jenny Dempster Family Foundation on Sunday, January 17, 2010.  Illinois Governor, Pat Quinn, made a special appearance at the party to declare the day as “The Ryan and Jenny Dempster Family Foundation to strike out 22q day.” Ryan’s teammates came out in full force to show their support for the starting pitcher and his family. Derrek Lee, Randy Wells, Micah Hoffpauir, Koyie Hill, Jeff Smardzija, Sean Marshall, Ryan Theriot, Ted Lilly, Tom Gorzelanny, John Grabow and even Cubs Legend Ernie Banks were all in attendance. Partygoers enjoyed delicious Hub 51 appetizers and spirits from William Grant and Sons all while listening to the cool sounds of Chicago Legend, John Vincent.   Before Governor Quinn made his proclamation, Ryan and Jenny took the stage to thank all of the Foundation supporters and introduce Donna McDonald McGinn, the Associate Director  of Clinical Genetics at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.  The night also featured over 60 fabulous silent auction items.  Tickets to The Oprah Show, and Saturday Night Live went for top dollar while bidding wars over a Michael Jordan jersey and a Ukelele signed by Pearl Jam Frontman, Eddie Vedder, went on throughout the night between several of Ryan’s teammates. The highlight of the night came as Ryan played Auctioneer and commanded top price for some unique Live Auction items including a skate at Wrigley Field with Ryan and NHL Great, Chris Chelios and a private skate session with Blackhawks All Star Jonathan Toews.  An Ultimate Cubs Fan Package which includes throwing out the first pitch at a Cubs game proved to be so popular that 2 packages were sold. The real bidding war came as Ryan auctioned off a trip for 8 on a private jet to see the Cubs take on the Mets in New York. The lucky winner paid $24,000 for the coveted prize. Overall the launch party was a huge success, raising close to $200,000 to support the Dempster Family Foundation and their efforts to bring awareness to 22q11.2 (DiGeorge Syndrome) and support of children and families affected by the syndrome.

View Photos from the Launch Party

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