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We are reaching out today on behalf of Molly McAvoy Flynn. Molly grew up on the South Side of Chicago where she attended St. Denis Grade School (’83), Mother McAuley High School (’87), Northern Illinois University (’91), and received her MBA from Saint Xavier University (’00). Molly worked at Palos Hospital in the Accounting Department for 28 years. On New Year’s Eve in 1990, Molly met Mike Flynn. Mike attended St. Adrian Grade School (’78). Mike is a graduate of St. Rita High School (’82). Mike has been a union electrician and proud member of Local 134 for the last 34 years. Mike and Molly fell in love and were married in 1997.
Molly and Mike created a wonderful life together, complete with five beautiful children: Morgan, Casey, Megan, Michael and Caroline. All five are graduates of St. Michael School in Orland Park. Morgan, Casey, and Megan are graduates of Marist High School, where Michael is a senior and Caroline is a sophomore. The Flynn home, always full of activity and the site of countless gatherings and celebrations, has centered around their love of family, friends, and sports.
In the summer of 2023, Molly began experiencing some health issues, eventually leading to a shocking colon cancer diagnosis. Fortunately, the cancer was contained and surgery was all that was required for a cure. After recovering from this major surgery, however, Molly’s original health issues did not improve and some additional symptoms appeared. After many appointments with various doctors and specialists, including a week’s hospital stay and a trip to Mayo Clinic, the unimaginable happened. Molly received the devastating diagnosis of ALS.
ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS causes loss of muscle control and worsens over time. Eventually, ALS affects control of the muscles needed to move, speak, eat and breathe. Presently, there is no cure for ALS, but we are not without hope! Molly is currently participating in a clinical trial for ALS through Northwestern Medical Center.
Molly has faced this diagnosis with an astounding level of courage and grace. Despite having physical symptoms affect most aspects of her day, Molly refuses to give in and continues to be the most amazing wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. She attends speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling.
The Flynns, who have always been so generous to others in their hour of need, now need our help. The physical, emotional and financial toll of an ALS diagnosis cannot be overstated. The fight ahead will be incredibly difficult. Molly needs a Miracle.
Family and friends will host a benefit for Molly and her family at Gaelic Park, on April 6, 2025, from 1:00 to 6.00 pm. Cost is $40 per person and includes food, wine, and draft beer, along with music and raffles.
We are soliciting donations and/or sponsorships for this event. Your support, however big or small, is deeply appreciated. Additionally, we kindly ask you to pray for The Flynns and Molly’s Miracle!
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Gaelic Park, 6119 147th St, Oak Forest, IL 60452-1087, United States,Oak Forest, Illinois