Andre Dawson was a legendary player – the MLB Hall of Famer is one of only 8 MLB players to have over 300 home runs and 300 steals in his career. There’s no doubt Dawson is one of the most memorable Cubs of all time. 

But Dawson’s impact goes beyond the field. This includes his involvement in Fans for the Cure, an organization devoted to prostate cancer awareness. Dawson was honored, along with Doctor Christopher Gonzalez, a urologist at Loyola University Medical Center, at Smith and Wollensky in Chicago on Wednesday night. 

“I have been an avid supporter [of Fans for the Cure] since I met Ed Randall 10 years ago,” Dawson said. “This for me hits close to home, since I’m an 11-year cancer survivor.” 

Fans for the Cure is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the early detection of men’s prostate cancer and works to educate on best practices for treatment of the disease. Ed Randall, a longtime New York radio and TV personality, started the organization in 2003 after his own diagnosis with prostate cancer. 

The event on Wednesday was all about raising awareness. 

“We thought this would be a great opportunity to honor Andre, who owns Chicago from his years with the Chicago Cubs,” Randall said. “We’re here to spread the gospel of prostate cancer awareness and education.” 

Fans for the Cure has a screening event, health fairs, support groups, and speaking slots at medical meetings and conventions throughout the year. This “Night on the River,” where Dawson, Randall and Dr. Gonzalez spoke, was a time for people to connect about the issue and reminisce about Dawson’s time in Chicago. Dawson referred to himself as a Chicago lifer. 

“For me, this evening is touching since it’s close to home,” Dawson said.  

“Hearing [Andre’s] story is amazing, and he does a lot of things in the community,” Dr. Gonzalez said. “It’s just great to see people to rally around this because there’s so much we can do to make things better and get the word out.” 

Randall, Dawson, Gonzalez and everyone supporting Fans for the Cure hope there’s one day where nobody is affected. 

“I tell players that I’m the only CEO who you’re ever going to meet that wants to go out of business,” Randall said. “By the time they get off the field today, hopefully there will be a cure for prostate cancer.” 

For more information on Fans for the Cure, check out their website at fansforthecure.org