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Benefit for Illinois coach Chris Hruska, who is battling brain cancer, set for Palatine, Ill. on June 6

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by Gary Abbott

The Illinois wrestling community has created a fundraising event to assist in the medical costs facing coach Chris Hruska, who has been recently diagnosed with brain cancer.

There will be a Benefit for Chris Hruska held at Durty Nellie's Pub, which is at 180 N. Smith Street in Palatine, Ill. on Sunday, June 6th from 1:00 -4:00 p.m.

The entry fee is $30.00 per person. There will be live music, food and soft drinks, along with a cash bar. A raffle and silent auction will be held during the event. All ages are welcome

Chris Hruska is a lifelong member of the Illinois wrestling community. He is a former IKWF State Champion and two-time IHSA state place winner for Conant High School. He wrestled collegiately for SIU-Edwardsville and is a former Division II National Qualifier.

Chris has dedicated much of his adult life to coaching at the youth, high school, and college levels. He was recently diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme brain cancer. Treatment is very expensive. Organizers are hoping to ease the financial burden on Chris and his family at this tremendously stressful time. Anyone who knows Chris knows that he will give everything he has to battle through these circumstances.

"Chris has been a part of my life and a part of the Illinois wrestling community for a long time" said World bronze medalist Lindsey Durlacher. "He has been a coach and supporter of mine for years. I competed against him when he was at SIU-Edwardsville and I was at Illinois. He is a good guy, has great character and is a fun person. He always helps the community. He gives back and will help anybody. Chris is a generous guy."

Durlacher said that those who know him were very surprised and upset to hear that Chris had a large tumor and had become very ill.

"We are doing everything we can for him, and are working hard on this fundraiser" said Durlacher. "Everybody is trying to help out any way that they can."

People can purchase tickets in advance if they mail in their checks prior to May 23. Make checks payable to "Friends for Chris" and mail the payment to 2926 Plantation Dr., Carpentersville, IL 60110. After May 23, tickets are available at the door.

For information, please contact one of the following individuals:
- Brad Bessemer: 224-622-7189
- Chris McGrath: 773-339-3054
- Chad Woods: 773-485-2423
- Mark Schuring: 815-245-0842

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