Why we run

Gus Evangelides was a beautiful little boy, with curly hair and big blue eyes. He had a sweet smile, a hearty laugh, and loved exploring his world. At fourteen months, after prolonged periods of vomiting and other symptoms, he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Despite surgery and aggressive chemotherapy, Gus’ tumor returned. He died at twenty-one months old in April 1995.

The family and friends of Gus Evangelides established the Gus Foundation in December of 1995.

Their goal was to keep other children from suffering Gus’ fate by funding research that would lead to better treatments, and ultimately a cure. Since that time, the Gus Foundation has raised over $4.5 million for pediatric brain tumor research centered in Chicago. More than 85% of the funds raised have gone directly to research and Gus Foundation programming for patients and their families.

Although the Gus Foundation has recently closed its doors, the Young Associates Board is continuing as its legacy organization. The YAB will continue to support critical research that is either centered at, or collaborated with Children’s Memorial and will help make a difference in the lives of the thousands of children afflicted with brain tumors by supporting research and activities at the hospital.

Sign up today and have a great time for a great cause by participating in the 6th Annual Run for Gus.

Thank you!