Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club Raises $54,695 for Fort HealthCare Mammogram Voucher Program Through Save the Racks Ride Fundraiser
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
JEFFERSON – The Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club proudly announces the successful conclusion of the 7th Annual Save the Racks Ride, which took place on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This year’s event saw a remarkable turnout of 279 riders, including participants from out of state for the first time. The event raised an impressive $54,695 for the Fort HealthCare Mammogram Voucher Program, bringing the total funds raised over the past seven years to an astounding $167,559, all generated by a dedicated team of volunteers. Notably in 2024, 166 individuals benefited from vouchers, a significant increase from 81 in 2023 and 48 in 2022.
“The Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club’s dedication through the Save the Racks Ride is truly saving lives,” said Michael Anderson, MD, Fort HealthCare President & CEO. “Their efforts are breaking down barriers to care, ensuring women in our community have access to essential breast cancer screenings. This partnership demonstrates the extraordinary impact of community-driven initiatives, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.”
Held on a picturesque fall day, the event fostered a spirit of community and support. Riders from across Wisconsin and beyond came together to champion this important cause, displaying their commitment to improving women’s health in the region.
Mammograms play a vital role in the early detection of breast cancer, greatly enhancing the chances of successful treatment and survival. Regular screenings can identify tumors that are too small to be felt, allowing for timely intervention. The Fort HealthCare Mammogram Voucher Program ensures that all women, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to this essential screening. Thanks to the generous contributions from the Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club, expanded services began in June 2024 that cover diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, surgical consultations, breast biopsies and necessary pathology services.
A patient and recipient of the Mammogram Voucher program shared, “After experiencing some concerning breast health issues, the entire breast care team stepped in, providing guidance and support as I navigated next steps. It was a scary process, but I truly felt supported every step of the way. Thanks to the Mammo Voucher Program, I was able to undergo additional testing (that led me to a biopsy) without the added stress of the financial burden.”
Event organizer Chris Lemke expressed heartfelt thanks to the community, sponsors and riders, stating, “Every dollar we raise brings us closer to ensuring that no woman faces the battle against breast cancer alone. The Save the Racks fundraiser is a powerful testament to our community’s strength and compassion. By supporting the Fort HealthCare Mammogram Voucher Program, we are investing in health, hope, and the future of our loved ones.”
The Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club extends heartfelt thanks to all riders, sponsors, volunteers and community members who made this event possible. This year’s success would not have been achievable without their dedication and generosity. Mark your calendars for next year’s event, scheduled for Saturday, October 4, 2025. For more information about the Save the Racks Ride and to stay updated on future events, please visit https://www.halfmileatvclub.com/ or contact Chris Lemke at SaveTheRacksATV@gmail.com.
Pictured Left to Right – Lisa Jensen, Fort HealthCare Vice President of Nursing Services and Chief Nursing Officer; Chris Barron, Fort HealthCare Executive Director of Population Health & Clinical Services; John Drake; Julie Drake; Kathie Roth, Fort HealthCare Radiology Coordinator; Nicole Miller (back); Chris Lemke (holding check); Deb Milbrath; Michael Anderson, MD, Fort HealthCare President & CEO.
About the Jefferson 12 Mile ATV Club: The Jefferson ½ Mile ATV Club is committed to promoting safe and enjoyable ATV riding while giving back to the community. Through various events and initiatives, the club fosters a sense of camaraderie among riders and supports local causes.