Thanks to the support of Phillies fans and the generosity of Asplundh, $800,004 was raised to strike out ALS during the team’s ALS Awareness Night, held during this evening’s game against the Chicago Cubs at Citizens Bank Park. This amount includes an on-field donation of $365,000 made by the event’s presenting sponsor, Asplundh, in honor of its former Chairman of the Board/CEO Scott Asplundh, who is battling ALS. Monies raised will benefit ALS United Mid-Atlantic and go toward research, care and services for ALS patients.
More than $23.8 million has been raised for the cause since the club’s relationship with ALS United Mid-Atlantic began in 1984. The ballpark-wide event was a continuation of the Phillies’ efforts to make a difference for those battling this fatal disease and held in support of MLB’s recent league-wide Lou Gehrig Day.
“Tonight’s event was about giving hope to the brave individuals and their families who are affected by ALS,” said Phillies Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer John Middleton. “We thank our fans, and especially Asplundh, for all their support as we aim to find a cure for this terrible disease.”
The night included an “ALS Lineup of Courage,” with those battling and affected by ALS lined up on the field alongside Phillies players during the national anthem, with participants including Scott Asplundh and local ALS United Mid-Atlantic patients. ALS patient and former Phillies intern Michael Brown was honored on-field during the game.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by ALS,” said Asplundh CEO Matt Asplundh. “We are proud to partner with the Phillies and ALS Mid-Atlantic United in honor of Scott Asplundh, our former Chairman of the Board and CEO, who has been living with this dreadful disease.”
Fundraising included an online Phillies Charities Auction, a 50/50 Drawing, grab bags sponsored by Hatfield Quality Meats with autographed items and a special Theme Night ticket. The club also hosted the recent Phantastic Auction, with part of the proceeds benefitting the cause.
“Our entire ALS community thanks the Philadelphia Phillies for once again going above and beyond to honor Lou Gehrig and support the fight against ALS,” said Ellyn Phillips, Board Chair Emeritus at ALS United Mid-Atlantic. “For over 40 years, the Phillies and their fans have supported the mission to strike out ALS. Through fundraising and awareness, they make it possible for ALS United Mid-Atlantic to provide the critical care programs that patients rely on every day.”
For more information on ALS United Mid-Atlantic, visit alsmidatlantic.org.