Since 1962, Bears players have worn a 'C' on their helmets to showcase their allegiance to the city of Chicago.
This week during practice, players have a new addition to their uniform to add inspiration.
As part of Crucial Catch Week, players will wear a special white and pink Advocate Health Care patch on their practice jerseys leading up to the Crucial Catch game on Sunday against the Patriots.
On Wednesday, the team made player's practice-worn jerseys available through auction via the free Chicago Bears App. Proceeds from the jersey sales will go toward the "Real Bears Fans Wear Pink" campaign benefiting organizations that support breast cancer patients, survivors and their family members.
Each jersey recipient will also receive an 8 x 10 inch "I Practice For" card signed by the player. Each card features a photograph of the Bears new practice field at Halas Hall and an official presentation document on the opposite side, indicating the recipient of the jersey and the name of someone for whom the player dedicated his week of practice.
The unique keepsake can make for a touching gift to honor a survivor or as a personnel token to remember one's own battle with cancer.
Five of the jerseys will not be auctioned off and instead will be given directly to breast cancer survivors. On Friday morning, five survivors who were treated by Advocate Health Care will have the opportunity to attend practice with their guests. Each of the five women will receive a practice jersey from a player. Players giving their jersey to a survivor include cornerback Prince Amukamara, linebacker Leonard Floyd, guard Eric Kush, receiver Kevin White and running back Ryan Nall.
Fans can see jerseys available for auction by opening the Chicago Bears Official App on their mobile device, tapping on 'More' in the bottom right corner, then on 'Bears Care Auction.' Returning users can login to see items available to bid on, and new users have the option to register an account for free to browse the listings.
As the Bears have prepared for battle with the Patriots this week, they've been inspired by the more serious battles of many NFL fans who have been touched by cancer and are honored by the opportunity to help raise awareness and funds to help intercept this disease.
