Young cancer patient gets VIP treatment at Bulls private practice

Advocate Children’s Hospital and the Chicago Bulls recently teamed up to give one young cancer survivor and devoted Chicago Bulls fan the experience of a lifetime. Eighteen-year-old Lucas Dobbs from Arlington Heights sat courtside and even shot some hoops during private practice at the Advocate Center for an exclusive, behind the scenes day.

Upon his arrival, Lucas was greeted by Bulls forward Matas Buzelis, one of Lucas’ favorite players, and was gifted a custom Bulls jersey and sneakers. He and his family then watched the private practice, where Lucas not only had a front row seat but also was able to meet and interact with Bulls point guard Coby White and Bulls forward Patrick Williams. The day concluded with Lucas being invited onto the court to shoot around with the players before the end of practice.

Lucas was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in September 2024. He spent two weeks in the hospital immediately following his diagnosis and endured six months of chemotherapy after his hospital stay. Lucas was declared cancer-free in February, ringing the bell to signify the end of treatment on February 21, 2025 – just in time to graduate high school in May. A lifelong Bulls fan, Lucas shared that being able to celebrate this milestone with his favorite team was truly a dream come true.

“This was the most incredible experience of my life,” Lucas said. “I was speechless when I saw Matas greeting me at the door and then gifted me custom jersey and shoes. My favorite part of the whole day was the once in a lifetime opportunity to watch my favorite team practice and how special they made me feel when they talked to me. Best day ever! Thank you to Advocate and the Bulls for this opportunity!”

About Advocate Children’s Hospital:

As part of Advocate Health Care, Advocate Children’s Hospital is one of the largest network providers of pediatric services in Illinois and the nation. The two main campuses are located in the Chicago metropolitan region – Oak Lawn in the southwest and Park Ridge in the northwest, with additional services accessible at other Advocate hospitals throughout the state. Advocate Children’s Hospital serves as a major referral center for infants and children. Through a special, holistic approach, Advocate Children’s Hospital combines some of the country’s most respected medical talent with exceptional and compassionate care. Advocate Children’s Hospital is a member of the Chicagoland Children’s Health Alliance (CCHA), a partnership with University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital and Endeavor Health.