HHS backs student battling cancer

HUNTLEY — Huntley High School rallied around a champion as Lucas Gidelski and his family received special recognition at the Huntley Fall Sports Kickoff event.

Lucas Gidelski, a sophomore, has been battling T-cell Lymphoblastic Cancer and is this year’s Champions for Cures Champion.

“It was amazing, the support we have received from the community,” mom Kandice Gidelski said of the support Aug. 18. “Lucas was there in the stands with his sophomore football team buddies. He can watch from the sidelines this year if he wishes.”

Plans are to continue to have Lucas be tutored at home while he receives care at Anne and Robert Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. He may  in-person learning this fall if all goes well. “PE is his favorite subject,” Kandice Gidelski said.

The prior scrimmage festivities Aug. 18 included selected fans attempting to throw the football, to a net for pre-season Bears tickets.

“Despite facing T-cell Lymphoblastic Cancer, Red Raider Lucas Gidelski has shown remarkable strength and courage in his fight against this disease,” an HHS announcement read. “He and his family have been exceptionally resilient and been an incredible support throughout his journey. We are immensely proud of this terrific Huntley family and honored to support them throughout this challenging time.”

Champions for Cures representatives, including co-founder Kort McCulley, attended the Huntley High School Fall Kickoff event.

Lucas’s situation has touched Champions for Cures, a 501(c)(3) organization, and professional athletes, starting with Detroit Lions wide receiver TJ Brown. Champions for Cures is also supported by radio station WMVP, ESPN Chicago.

“Champions for Cures” mission is to create awareness. Lucas Gidelski has shown remarkable strength and reliance. He and his family have given so much to the Huntley community. We are honored to support them in their fight,” according to a statement on the Champions for Cures web sit