“Every year, we organize and host a Breast Cancer Fundraiser at the Thirsty Beaver. I started this fundraiser because my sister was diagnosed with Stage 4 triple-negative Breast Cancer at the age of 42 in 2012. My sister had to quit her job and go on disability because she was too sick to work. Today, thanks to a new immunotherapy drug, she is doing great. The drug has kept her cancer at a standstill. However, she will need to be on some kind of drug or chemo treatment for the rest of her life. Seeing my sister go through this experience motivated me to give back to people in need. Through this annual fundraiser, I have been able to help many people who are facing a similar situation as my sister.

One of the most important things that we do is raise money all year long for this event. Last year, we raised over $10,000. This fundraiser helps four individuals undergoing treatment each year. We buy gas and grocery gift cards with the money from the fundraiser proceeds and divide the gift cards among the recipients. This helps them to be able to focus on their treatment and their families without having to worry about how they are going to pay for their basic needs. It is a small way that we can make a big difference in their lives. We are so grateful for the support of our community and we are looking forward to another successful year.” -Dani Hansen, Owner of Thirsty Beaver in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.