But on September 21, 1997 they were at the hospital for a reason other than illness. They were there to represent all the children who were unable to attend because they were in hospital beds.

These three boys, along with the director of the Children's Hospital, were the starting team at this year's "For the Children" handcar races!

1997 is the third year that this event, originated and coordinated by BMWE members, has been put on. Through the years they have been able to purchase hospital equipment for the Children's Hospital, raising the money with handcar relays and this year a race.

Eight-hundred feet of track was brought in and installed on site at the hospital so that the children who were to be beneficiaries could attend!

Twenty-seven teams of four took turns pumping the handcar. There was an all female BMWE team who called themselves "The O'Brien Girls" and a special team representing UP's old C&NW, today's Chicago Metro Passenger Line, flew in to participate.

The event raised over $10,000.00 to purchase equipment for the Neonatal ICU to help premature babies.

Next year "For the Children" goes across the nation! Events will be held in both California and Illinois.

Gary Mang, event originator and coordinator, as well as former BMWE Local 134 Chairman said, "I'm glad to see so much participation! We really want to do all we can to help the children have better lives. I have been blessed with two healthy children, and I'm fortunate to receive their love and affection every day. I'd like to have other families be able to have the same. That is why it has made such a difference for the hundreds of BMWE members who participate and support this cause."

T-shirts from the event are still available for a $20.00 donation. For more information about this event, write to: For the Children, 501 Northgate Road, Lindenhurst, Illinois 60046, or call (847) 623-6155.