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Starting small for a big impact on cancer research


Mon, Feb 4th, 2013
Posted in Rochester Features

Starting with the front row: Traci Prindle, Mark McConnell, Jill Nagel, Deanna Gage, Heidi Gage. Second row: Chris Prindle, Dean Ripley, Dan Doering, Tracy Majerus, Steve Gage, Rob Majerus, Lindee Welk, Brad Douglas. Photo submitted

On January 19 and 20, Eagles Fifth Cancer Telethon of Rochester raised more than $900,000 of funding toward cancer research. Don’t you wonder where all the money came from?

Brad Douglas, co-founder of the Cabin Fever Bean Bag Tournament, explained, “Most of this money is raised by small groups like us.” Different organizations put on fundraisers throughout the year and present the money at the Telethon event.

Cabin Fever started as an idea among friends. “We wanted to do a fundraiser,” Brad said. “We decided to do it in the winter when people are looking for something to do.”

The main event is a bean bag tournament March 16 at the Rochester International Event Center. But there will also be live music, a DJ, food, drink, Bingo, karaoke, a costume contest and more.

“The raffle is where the real money comes from,” Braid said. Raffle prizes include a lawn tractor, a Mackinac Island vacation, a 46 inch TV and, Brad’s favorite, a year supply of ham and bacon. “It’s good to have Hormel in your corner,” he explained.

Last year, Cabin Fever raised $29,000. “We’ve been able to double our money every year,” Brad said. “We’re hoping to get $50,000 this year.”

This is the fourth annual Cabin Fever event. Brad said it wouldn’t be possible if not for the community support. “It’s community based projects that make this happen. And our sponsors,” he added. “They’re huge!”

This year the Cabin Fever group is starting a Survivor vs. Celebrity tournament match. Children with cancer will be competing with their idols. “We’re keeping the event light hearted while honoring those with the disease,” Brad said. “These kids are courageous and strong…but they’re struggling.”

The event and fundraising is important to the Cabin Fever cofounders. “All of us have someone close to us who either has cancer or has passed away because of it,” Brad explained.

The Eagles Fifth Cancer Telethon brings Brad hope. “They invite researchers to banquets where they explain to us how they will use the money. You get to see their appreciation.”

Raffle tickets and event updates are available at http://www.cabinfeverbeanbags.org/. Call (507) 269-8023 with questions.

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