Overview

• The pre-recorded message was played during the opening ceremony at Soldier Field around 10:05 a.m. before the two-mile lakefront walk.
• He praised researchers and scientists working on motor neuron disease, saying he was "filled with admiration and gratefulness."
• He called caregivers "angels" and told attendees, "Death is not the final word. Love conquers death."
• Roughly 2,000 participants turned out to raise money for ALS care and research, with Northwestern Medicine highlighted as a partner.
• He recognized the Les Turner ALS Foundation’s legacy and lauded longtime leaders Harvey and Bonnie Gaffen for sustaining the effort.