Although Coach Greg Gard and his wife, Michelle have always philanthropically supported cancer research, they did not truly understand the magnitude of the disease until it became excruciatingly personal to them. Greg’s father, Glen Gard, passed away in October 2015 after a six-month battle with glioblastoma multiforme, a form of brain cancer. A few months after his death, they began reflecting on their journey and having conversations about how to embrace and carry forward the lessons they had learned. The Gard's considered the best ways they could use their experience to help other people while honoring Greg’s late father. Through this process, it became clear that they wanted the impact to be across the state of Wisconsin — their presence to be felt by patients and researchers from border to border. Thus, the Garding Against Cancer (GAC) initiative was born.
Since the December 2016, the launch of GAC, Coach Gard and Michelle have successfully raised more than $7 million. Thanks to the support of so many friends of this mission, GAC has taken on an exciting life of its own. Together GAC is making a difference in the lives of researchers, patients, and families throughout the state. Along with amazing research happening at the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, they’ve also been able to offer support for a variety of patient-focused initiatives in and around the local communities of Menomonie, Wisconsin Dells, Wausau, Oshkosh, La Crosse, Whitewater, Janesville, Eau Claire and Manitowoc.
As part of the Wisconsin Men’s Basketball exhibition game against UW-Stevens Point this year, we’re pleased to host Garding Against Cancer Stevens Point. All proceeds from this event will stay in the area and will support local cancer support organizations. The evening will include heavy hors d' oeuvres, a program featuring Coach Gard and Coach Kent Dernbach with special guest Brian Butch, a silent auction, raffle, live entertainment and an opportunity to support the Garding Against Cancer initiative.
We hope that you'll join us by becoming a sponsor or attending the event.
