MOUNT GREENWOOD — Anthony's Avengers will assemble from 2-7 p.m. Sunday at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park.
The group behind the orange and gray ribbons on display throughout Mount Greenwood was created in support of 5-year-old Anthony Pappalas. The little boy with the infectious smile was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor on July 24.
Proceeds from the benefit will pay for medical bills that exceed what the insurance company will cover, living expenses and costs associated with experiences Anthony would like to have during his fight.
Anthony is battling a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, or DIPG. This rare and aggressive brain tumor affects children between ages 5-7. Only 300 children are diagnosed each year with the condition in all of North America and Europe.
Upon hearing the news, friends and family hung gray ribbons for brain cancer awareness on trees and street poles along Anthony's block. These were later paired them with orange ribbons — Anthony's favorite color.
The ribbons now blanket Mount Greenwood as a show of support to the middle child of three boys as he battles cancer. The support group takes its name from Anthony's favorite Marvel superheroes. Iron Man is his favorite member of the team.
Radiation and chemotherapy treatments for Anthony will continue throughout September as part of a clinical trial at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital in Streeterville.
The upcoming fundraiser at 3359 W. 115th St. will include food, drinks, games, door prizes, raffle items and live entertainment. Advance tickets cost $35 or tickets can be bought at the door for $40. Kids tickets cost $15.
To buy tickets, email anthonysavengers@gmail.com or call 773-391-8652. Anyone interested in making donations to the family can also visit a Crowdrise page set up for Anthony's Avengers.
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