The 2nd Rock the Block for Pediatric Epilepsy Research Benefit held on Saturday, October 16th at Chicago Illuminating Company was deemed a huge success. It is estimated that 450 people attended the event and close to $175,000 was raised for pediatric epilepsy research. Attendees were able to choose from over 120 silent auction items, raffles for U2 or Lady Gaga tickets, or donate towards epilepsy research through the "Fund-A-CURE". The Breakfast Club, an 80’s cover band, entertained guests throughout the evening.
Guests were also treated to an emotional and inspiring video, by Optimus, showing the stories of 5 families each with a child with epilepsy, all united by one goal – a cure for pediatric epilepsy. Stacey and John Pigott, who have a son, Evan, with epilepsy, along with Kathy and Bob Dodd, whose daughter Stacy is also afflicted with epilepsy, created the first Rock the Block Event two years ago. They never dreamed the event would be so successful and were overwhelmed by outpouring of support since starting Rock the Block.The Dodd’s and the Pigott’s know too well the toll epilepsy can have on a family. Today, Evan Pigott is seizure free, but not at expense of suffering years of constant seizures – and daily worries that his seizures could return at any time. Stacy Dodd, however, has tried every medication available in the US, and still today her seizures persist.
All proceeds from the Rock the Block for Pediatric Epilepsy Research event will benefit CURE-Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy; a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for epilepsy by raising funds for research and by increasing awareness of the prevalence and devastation of this disease.
If you would like your name added to our mailing list, please send your name, address and email to rocktheblockforcure@gmail.com
