On Friday, December 8 the Defeat of Jesse James Days (DJJD) committee presented a $6,000 donation to Northfield Hospital Foundation. The donation is designated to the Northfield Hospital Breast Care Center and the Northfield Hospital Cancer Care and Infusion Center. The funds were raised as part of the Give Cancer the Boot (GCTB) campaign, which was started by members of the DJJD committee in 2013 to spread awareness and show their support for those in the Northfield community who are going through cancer treatment.
“In the 10 years since the campaign started, we’ve donated more than $60,000,” said Galen Malecha, DJJD General Chairperson. “We are so proud to be able to support our community in this way. It’s always a bright spot in the year for us.”
Funds are raised through a variety of DJJD events including the annual cornhole tournament, a ‘pass the boot’ event at the rodeo, and shop for a cause – all sponsored by local area businesses.
Several staff members were on hand to receive the donation this year: (Left to right as pictured) Julie Nikolai Sullivan and Anne Schumann, Northfield Hospital Foundation representatives; Jodi Wieczorek, Director of Cancer Care & Infusion Center; Galen Malecha and Rebecca Peterson, DJJD Committee; Anya Sibunka, Nurse Navigator for Breast Care Center; Elizabeth Rowland, lead mammography technologist in the Breast Care Center; Lisa Lang, Director of Diagnostic Imaging.
The donation will help fund comfort items for cancer patients, including a new-patient welcome bag with journals, puzzles, snacks, and personal comfort items; weighted blankets for use during chemotherapy; and candles in the hospital room of patients recovering from breast surgery.
“These touches help provide comfort during a very stressful time,” said Jodi Wieczorek, Director of the Cancer Care and Infusion Center. “It adds a human touch to what we do for patients, and they so appreciate it. We are so grateful that these funds are provided each year – they make such a positive impact for our patients.”
Rebecca Peterson, GCTB Chairperson, joined Galen for the donation presentation. “Hearing about how these funds are making a difference for patients is what keeps us going each year, we’re looking forward to the next 10 years of GCTB.”
For more information about GCTB events follow DJJD on Facebook or check out their website at djjd.org.
Questions can be directed to Galen Malecha (612) 220-6041