Donation from Whittemore-Prescott Students Helps Cancer Patients Access Treatment
Michelle Bacarella, fund development specialist, and Amy Torgusen, manager, receive a donation from Cardinal Leadership Program students.
Kelsey Killinger, director of fund development, and Shawna Buda, supervisor, receive a donation from Cardinal Leadership Program students.
Cancer patients receiving care at MyMichigan Medical Centers in Tawas and West Branch will benefit from the generosity and leadership of students from Whittemore-Prescott High School.
Members of the school's Cardinal Leadership Program recently donated more than $4,000 to support cancer services at MyMichigan Medical Center Tawas and MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch. The funds were raised through a student-led cancer walk fundraiser held in October 2025.
The Cardinal Leadership students identified an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of local cancer patients by organizing a cancer walk during the school day. Students participated by making donations to join the walk and enjoy special activities, including snow cones. Fundraising efforts also extended to Whittemore-Prescott home football game, helping the group surpass its fundraising goal.
Following the fundraiser, Cardinal Leadership members presented donations to both cancer centers and toured the facilities. During their visits, students met with staff members and learned how their contributions will directly impact patients receiving cancer treatment in their communities.
The donated funds will be used to help cancer patients overcome transportation barriers by assisting with travel costs to and from treatment appointments. Reliable transportation is often a critical need for patients undergoing cancer care, particularly in rural communities where travel distances can be significant.
“We are incredibly grateful for the compassion, initiative and generosity demonstrated by the students in the Cardinal Leadership Program,” said Kelsey Killinger, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “Their commitment to supporting local cancer patients will make a difference by helping ensure patients can access the care they need without the added burden of transportation challenges.”
The partnership highlights the positive impact young leaders can have on the health and well-being of their communities. Through their dedication and hard work, the Whittemore-Prescott students have helped provide practical support and hope to local patients and families facing cancer.
Those interested in more information on cancer services at MyMichigan Medical Center Tawas may contact Michelle Bacarella, fund development specialist at (989) 362-0159 or michelle.bacarella@mymichigan.org. Those interested in more information about cancer services at MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch may contact Killinger at (989) 343-3694 or kelsey.killinger@mymichigan.org.
