October 27, 2009

CHICAGO - At a press conference today at Ditka's Restaurant in Chicago, Gridiron Greats announced that Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush will be providing state-of-the-art, pro bono orthopaedic care to qualified retired NFL players. This care will be provided as part of an expanded medical program administered through the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund (GGAF).

"Surgeons and orthopaedic specialists from Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush are honored to assist in providing orthopaedic care to the players who paid the price," said Dr. Brian Cole, MOR sports medicine surgeon. "We are happy to be involved with the GGAF and support what they are doing in providing these 'pioneers of the game' the benefits that are needed to help them maintain a deserved quality of life."

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush will be designated as the "Official Ortho Specialists" for the Gridiron Greats in Chicago. The orthopaedic program at Rush University Medical Center is ranked 12th nationally by U.S.News & World Report and is the top ranked program in Illinois. The practice also serves as team physicians for the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago White Sox, and the DePaul Blue Demons.

About the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund (GGAF)

Many NFL players who helped build, shape, and mold the NFL into what it is today are paying the price physically, mentally, and emotionally from their on-the-field efforts. Also, some retired players who played in past NFL eras have not benefited from the benefits and pensions of the modern era. These players often lack adequate disability, rehabilitation, health insurance and retirement programs to maintain a quality of life and financial security for themselves and their families.

GGAF's mission is to assist dire need retired NFL players who are pioneers of the game and have greatly contributed to the NFL's status as the most popular sport in America. Since its inception, the GGAF has provided over $1.5 million in financial aid and pro bono medical assistance to retired NFL players.

For more information about the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, visit www.gridirongreats.org for more information.