Paramount Room -- Benefit for Shawn Koch (Feb. 8, 2009)

[Cross-Posted from the Paramount Room thread]

For those of you who have spent any time at the bar at the Paramount Room, you know that one of the most delightful things about the place is the presence of the bartender/beverage manager Shawn (shown accepting the Paramount Room's GNR award here), a genuinely nice guy and kind soul. When we lived nearby, my wife and I were semi-regulars at the Paramount Room and always sat at the bar and enjoyed chatting with Shawn, hearing about what was going on in his world, both behind the bar and away from work, exchanging tips about children (he is a relatively new dad, with a young daughter), and just shooting the breeze.

Unfortunately, we learned yesterday that Shawn found out a few weeks ago that he has brain cancer and had to undergo emergency brain surgery to remove some tumors. He is now in intensive rehab/physical therapy (to regain speech, motor function, etc.) and potentially has a further tough and long road ahead once the doctors figure out the type of cancer and the appropriate course of treatment. This Monday (Feb. 8th), the Paramount Room is having a benefit to help support Shawn and his family while he is out of work and I thought I would pass along the info below, from a Facebook page (you may have to have an account to access the link) announcing it. Just thought I would pass this along in case anyone is interested.

Join Paramount Room on Monday February 8th for a benefit in support of Paramount Room Beverage Manager and good friend Shawn Koch in his fight and recovery against brain cancer. 1/2 of the day's sales will be donated directly to Shawn and his Family from 3:00pm until when we close at 2am.

A full menu will be available throughout the night, as well as raffle-giveaway prizes such as: gift certificates to area restaurants, artwork, custom tattoos, and much more. There will also be an opportunity to donate directly to Shawn, Katie & their daughter Charlie to help with expenses, bills and whatever they may need while he is in recovery form surgery and unable to work. This will be a great evening of positive energy, support, well wishes, music, surprises, plus old and new friends - everyone is welcome.

For more information about Shawn please visit his website at http://www.shawnkoch.com

**If you would like to donate something for the raffle-giveaway for this event please contact direct message us on this site or call Paramount Room directly at (312) 829-6300 - otherwise just bring yourself!