Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune
Giving back to the community is a big part of who I am — I partly blame being a Girl Scout for over a decade — and often find myself in fundraising situations involving a frozen Lake Michigan or a small airplane (which is an oxymoron if you ask me). That’s partly why I started reading the article that graced the Arts & Entertainment section of Thursday’s Chicago Tribune. The other part was because the picture that accompanied it was Darth Vader flanked by a few Storm Troopers. Deep down, I love Star Wars.
The story showcased the Midwest Garrison of the 501st Legion, a large group of an even larger organization made up of various cosplaying Star Wars fans. But that’s just the surface of who they are. Since the beginning, the 501st has taken cosplay to the next level by making appearances at children’s hospitals, various fundraising events and even the Bartlett, IL 4th of July parade. This reporter followed the Midwest Garrison on this particular day to a picnic where the guests of honor where children stricken with various forms of cancer.
The touching story is amazing and I have to commend the guys and gals that partake. Truly a heartwarming story.
You can read the article here on the Chicago Tribune’s site as well as view pictures from the day here
And just for giggles, here’s me in Lake Michigan in February. I do this for Special Olympics Illinois. Call me crazy.
