In tradition that honors former underwriter Michael
Rock, BCBSIL has held a fundraiser for the last eight years to support
Alzheimer’s disease research.

Michael was a BCBSIL underwriter for 14 years before
being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2013 and retiring early. Even
before he came to our company, he would give more than 100 roses to his
colleagues on Valentine’s Day to express his appreciation. He would purchase
roses from various stores on the busiest floral holiday of the year, clean, de-thorn,
water, and place each one in a vase to deliver to his co-workers. Sadly, Mike
passed away in October 2022.

Originally, the fundraiser was done through selling
roses on St. Valentine’s Day. However, since the pandemic, we now hold a
virtual fundraiser which continues to be successful due to your generosity.

To honor Michael and our commitment to stand with those
affected by Alzheimer’s disease, we’re dedicating the month of February to this
cause.

We appreciate your support. Thank you and Happy
Valentine’s Day/Month!