Walk for Hope raises nearly $49,000 for cancer care close to home
DOVER-FOXCROFT — More than 330 people gathered in Dover-Foxcroft on Saturday, Sept. 20 for the Walk for Hope, Northern Light Mayo Hospital’s signature fundraiser in support of cancer care services at the Tracy Hibbard Kasprzak Cancer Treatment Center. Close to $49,000 has been raised so far to benefit the Cancer Center and Patient Assistance Fund to help patients access care.
“It was inspiring to see so many people come out today—their support, energy and compassion helps bring hope and strength to all who are affected by cancer,” says Marie Vienneau, BSN, MHA, FACHE, senior vice president and regional president, Northern Light Health and president, Northern Light CA Dean and Mayo Hospitals. “Right here at Mayo Hospital, we’re providing treatments that extend and improve lives. We believe that patients deserve care close to home, and today, we made a difference for all who rely on the only cancer center in Piscataquis County.”
Top fundraising teams included Maine Highlands Federal Credit Union, Foxcroft Academy football, Team Cher Bear, Cheryl’s Champions for Cancer, Foxcroft Academy field Hockey, Team Tracy and Linda’s Legacy. The individuals who raised the most were Monique Plummer, Amanda Thomas, Kiki Hodges, Peggy Cleaves, Teresa Taylor, Jennifer McKenna and Darcie Burch.
WALK FOR HOPE — More than 330 people gathered on Sept. 20 for the annual Walk for Hope, Northern Light Mayo Hospital’s signature fundraiser in support of cancer care services at the Tracy Hibbard Kasprzak Cancer Treatment Center. So far close to $49,000 has been raised.
“This was a great opportunity for us as a community to give back to something bigger than ourselves,” says Evan Seavey, junior quarterback of the Foxcroft Academy Ponies. “Whatever difference we can make, big or small, matters to all of us.”
Many of the walkers attended in honor and in memory of friends and family who had experienced a cancer journey.
“We are walking in memory of our grampy, Dan Ferrante,” says Molly Ferrante. “I’m here today with his granddaughters. They loved him so much, and he fought like heck to be here. This is our way of honoring him today and every day. I’m thrilled to be a part of this community and to be helping in any way I can.”
The Cancer Center at Mayo Hospital is named in memory of Hibbard Kasprzak, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and nurse whose 15-year battle with cancer inspired patients, survivors, caregivers and the community. The Cancer Center contains comfortable, private treatment spaces, a transfusion area, telemedicine capability and private consultation rooms.
WALKING PONIES — The Foxcroft Academy football team was among the top fundraising teams at this year’s Walk for Hope to benefit the Tracy Hibbard Kasprzak Cancer Treatment Center in Dover-Foxcroft.
Just before the walk began, Vienneau announced that a new bell, donated by Jane and Charlie Merrill, will be installed at Mayo Hospital for patients to sound at the completion of treatment.
“This bell, a symbol of strength, resilience, and hope, now stands as a reminder that every milestone in the cancer treatment journey is worth celebrating,” says Vienneau. “With each ring, the sound will echo not just perseverance, but also the generosity that made this gift possible. We’re so thankful to Jane and Charlie for their support.”
Sponsors of the event included Hibbard Nursing Home, Optum, RBC Wealth Management, Cleaves Farms, A.E. Robinson, Puritan, Indian Hill Trading Post, CVS Foundation, Maine Highlands Federal Credit Union, Shaw’s Supermarkets, A+ Party Rental, Ellen and Dave McDermott, the Varney Agency, True North Realty and ClearPoint Capital.
Donations for the event will be accepted through the end of September. To help Mayo Hospital reach the $50,000 goal, please visit northernlighthealth.org/WalkForHope.
FA FIELD HOCKEY FUNDRAISING — The Foxcroft Academy field hockey squad was among the top fundraising teams in the second annual Walk for Hope.