Bears Coach Matt Eberflus and David Yarrow shine at ALS United fundraiser

Coming off a Bears win on a recent Monday night, the mood was celebratory at Art + Athletics, An Evening with World Renowned Artist & Storyteller David Yarrow.  Chicago Bears Coach Matt Eberflus was presented with the Iron Horse Award, named in honor of Lou Gehrig, who battled ALS, just as Stan Eberflus, Jr.'s father did.

“It was an honor for our charity to be the recipient of this wonderful evening," said Julie Sharpe, President and CEO of ALS United Greater Chicago. "ALS United Greater Chicago is forever grateful to the Bears organization, Coach Eberflus, Arica Hilton and David Yarrow. It’s an evening we will never forget." The event raised $100,000 for the charity.

Lou Canellis, Fox 32’s sports director, emceed the event at Morgan Arts Complex where the Hilton Contemporary Gallery is showing Yarrow’s latest works. After Yarrow’s exhilarating and breathtaking presentation of his photographs of wildlife, models and sports superstars, some all in one photo, the world-renowned artist and storyteller offered prints of a photograph he took of a bear in Iliamna, Alaska, to the guests for $2,000 each. Yarrow signed, framed and sent them to all who made purchases.

The Iron Horse Award is given to the individual who displays the exact characteristics Lou Gehrig, the original Iron Horse, displayed on and off the field:  Lou Gehrig was known for his humility, courage, strength, love for his family and a willingness and desire to stand back in the shadows while being part of an incredible team.  He was a man’s man, who spoke by the way he lived his life and not through words. The mission of the ALS United Chicago is to foster bold research initiatives, advance national and state advocacy efforts and provide comprehensive care and support to individuals and families affected by ALS.