Maxime Dias Da Costa has been dealing with cancer for most of his young life. Undergoing brain tumour treatment in 2022 in a high-rise hospital in Chicago, US, Max spent many days peering out the window at the yachts on Lake Michigan below, wishing he could spend a day on the water with his friends.
Bear Necessities is an organisation that grants wishes to children with cancer. They approached the Chicago Yacht Club (CYC) Foundation to see if they could help fulfil Max’s wish. The treasurer, Chuck Anderson, immediately stepped in and offered his and his wife Rita’s Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht, Son’s Too VII.
“When we volunteered, we didn’t think twice. We are very passionate about our boating and we love to share the joy of boating,” says Chuck.
When I think about the number of people that we’ve had on the boat and the smiles on their faces, you know that you’re sharing something that is a privilege to share. - Rita Anderson
Chuck and Rita are no strangers to volunteering their time and luxury Riviera yacht. They joined the Foundation three years ago and often help out. “During the boating season we have many boat outings; with people with special needs, the visually impaired and the Girls and Boys Club. About a dozen CYC members’ boats participate in these activities,” says Chuck. “We’re so pleased with our Riviera, and we really enjoy sharing her with others, especially with the outreach we try to do. Primarily this is what the Foundation is all about, to encourage and promote nautical pursuits to those who have never had the opportunity.”
“When I think about the number of people that we’ve had on the boat and the smiles on their faces, you know that you’re sharing something that is a privilege to share. We’d love to make more wishes come true,” adds Rita.
For further information about the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation and Bear Necessities, please visit www.chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org or www.bearnecessities.org
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