Chicago, July 26 – During its first visit to Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Bears 4 Kids presented 100 bears to children suffering with cancer, heart ailments and other debilitating illnesses. Two-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA Chicago Sky alumna, Nikki McCray, joined Bears 4 Kids and inspired the children with her words and magnetic personality.

“It’s always great to visit children and be a positive light for them,” said Ms. McCray. “They’re going to pull through because they have great physicians and supportive families.” Ms. McCray led the US Women’s Olympic Basketball to win the gold medal in 1996 and 2000. She was also a WNBA All-Star Game starter in 1999, 2000 and 2001. Presently, Ms. McCray is coaching women’s college basketball for Western Kentucky University. The Chicago Sky generously provided t-shirts and pencils to all the children.

“Nikki McCray was amazing with the children,” said Bears 4 Kids Founder and President, Joseph B. Sprung. “Her ‘star’ quality brightened the entire hospital. We are very fortunate to have her on our team.”

“It means a lot to people to have visitors,” said Lisa Boland, coordinator or child life services at Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital. “Kids never expect gifts from people they don’t know. Parents and care-givers are amazed that people care enough to do this.”