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Community Corner

Game Pazzo to Host Fundraising Event to Battle Prostate Cancer

Armed with video game controllers in hand, gamers of all ages will be battling it out for the best score while also battling prostate cancer at the "Game Pazzo for Prostates" fundraising event from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, April 7.

The event is the vision of Terry Newsome, a Game Pazzo co-owner and prostate cancer warrior survivor.

“I was diagnosed just before Christmas 2009, and had my prostate removed robotically in February 2010,” Newsome said. “I’d been monitoring my PSA over the years because of my family history. So I was shocked to be diagnosed at Stage 4 and learn that the cancer had already spread to my lymph nodes.

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"I was 48 years old at the time, and have young twins. All I could think about was my wife and kids. The Us TOO web site has been a great help to me. Since their office and my business are both in Downers Grove, I gave them a call and offered to help with some sort of fundraising event.”   

In addition to playing all of the most popular video games on multiple gaming systems, participants can perform on the fully-equipped sound stage with Battle of the Bands, Rock Band, and Guitar Hero.

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Also on stage will be a performance by nationally known comedian, Mike Ostrowski, and a brief presentation about the advances in prostate cancer treatment by Dr. Walter Stadler, professor of at the University of Chicago medical school. 

All proceeds will be donated to Us TOO International Prostate Cancer Education & Support Network and Pints For Prostates.

The largest and most up-scale video gaming facility in the Midwest, Game Pazzo is located at 2011 63rd St. in Downers Grove. General admission for the fundraising event is $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Buy tickets and get more information at www.ustoo.org/gamepazzo or call 630-795-1002.

Even though “Game Pazzo for Prostates” is a video gaming party to raise awareness and funds, Newsome says, “Prostate cancer is not a game. Its serious business and we want everyone to know the risk and the resources available should they, a family member or friend get diagnosed.”

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