Gundersen Waukon Clinic among top Steppin’ Out in Pink fundraiser


Pictured above are members of Gundersen Waukon Clinic’s “Wauk On Breast Cancer” team that led the entire Gundersen fundraising effort by raising $2,431 for this year’s Steppin’ Out in Pink breast cancer fundraiser. Pictured above, left to right, are: Front row-Tara Zuercher, registered nurse (RN); Dani Fink, medical assistant (MA); Becky Lickiss, RN; Joan Fritz, RN; Shelle Fogt, licensed practical nurse (LPN); Jean Rea, patient liaison (PL). Back row-Renee Honn, PL; Hallie Linderbaum, regional business office coordinator; Barb Tieskoetter, RN; Kelli Hammel, MA; Lori Benzing, PL; Rachel Welch, lab/radiologic technician; Crystal Goltz, clinic manager. Submitted photo.

Gundersen Medical Foundation’s 11th annual Steppin’ Out in Pink proved pink is powerful. More than 6,100 walkers and 314 teams stepped out September 10 to help raise $395,000 for local breast cancer research.

Top Steppin’ Out in Pink fundraisers were recently announced. Leading the way was Gundersen Waukon Clinic’s “Wauk On Breast Cancer” team that brought in $2,431 and placed first in the Gundersen team competition. Last year, the team took second place in the same category.

“Our message this year was HOPE. We thank the Wauk On Breast Cancer team for embracing Steppin’ Out in Pink and giving hope to all those in the community that their gift will touch,” states Steppin’ Out in Pink chair Debbie Kroner, Gundersen Medical Foundation.

The Wauk On Breast Cancer team started its fundraising efforts over the summer. They coordinated lemonade stands, a raffle, brat cookout and root beer float sales at the Gundersen Waukon Clinic. They may have also been seen raising funds at the Allamakee County Fair.

Steppin’ Out in Pink wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of communities like Waukon. Proceeds from the event will:
• Fund breast cancer research initiatives at Gundersen Medical Foundation, including laboratory and outcomes-based research
• Provide life-saving mammograms for underinsured and uninsured women in our communities
• Help pay for basic needs of cancer patients during treatment, including food, transportation and lodging expenses
• Fund numerous breast cancer awareness programs, such as Living in Pink Support Group and the Survivorship Clinic
• Educate Cancer Center staff on cutting-edge technology and treatments.

Next year’s Steppin’ Out in Pink even has already been scheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2017. For more information, visit steppinoutinpink.org.