Advocate Patient Unfurls Bear Down Flag In Pregame Ceremony

CHICAGO – Advocate Christ Medical Center patient Larry Elitzer was recognized as the Chicago Bears’ special guest during the Bear Down Flag Ceremony on Dec. 18.

In partnership with Advocate Health Care, the Chicago Bears invited Elitzer, 54, of Chicago to help unfurl the Bear Down flag and participate in pregame activities at Soldier Field. He was joined on the field by his son, Corey Elitzer – also a former Advocate Christ Medical Center patient – before returning to the stands to watch the Bears face the Eagles.

Larry Elitzer first came to Christ in late 2019 when he couldn't figure out why he had shortness of breath. It got so bad, he'd have to take breaks to mow his lawn. Elitzer was baffled; he didn't drink or smoke and led an active lifestyle. Knowing the excellent heart care at Advocate Health Care and Advocate Christ Medical Center, Elitzer went into the emergency department to find a solution after other doctors couldn't find the problem. He was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, hospitalized, received an LVAD, and began his path to recovery.

“I feel good about myself again,” said Elitzer, a huge Bears fan who shared Sunday’s experience with his family, including his 24-year-old son Corey Elitzer, who also received lifesaving cardiovascular care at Advocate. Corey was born with a faulty heart valve and was able to receive his surgery in 2017 at Christ when he was 19. Now, five years later, he is a sixth-grade math teacher in Oak Lawn, pursuing his master's degree. The Elitzers are grateful to celebrate their health together at the Bears game.