Although we have always philanthropically supported cancer research, we did not truly understand the magnitude of the disease until it became excruciatingly personal to us. 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, we began reflecting on our journey and having conversations about how to embrace and carry forward the lessons we had learned. We considered the best ways we could use our experience to help other people while honoring Greg’s late father. Through this process, it became clear to us that we wanted our impact to be across the state of Wisconsin — our presence to be felt by patients and researchers from border to border. Thus, our Garding Against Cancer (GAC) initiative was born.

Since the December 2016 launch of GAC, we have successfully raised more than $5 million. Thanks to the support of so many friends of our mission, GAC has taken on an exciting life of its own. Together we are making a difference in the lives of researchers, patients, and families throughout the state. Along with amazing research happening in Madison, we’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, and La Crosse.

As part of the Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball exhibition game against UW Whitewater this year, we’re pleased to host Garding Against Cancer Whitewater | Janesville. All proceeds from this event will stay in the area and will support the Rock County Cancer Coalition, Jefferson County Cancer Coalition, Fort HealthCare, HealthNet of Rock County and local patient care at SSM Health and Mercyhealth Hospital in Janesville and Whitewater. The evening will come complete with strolling cocktails and appetizers, a raffle, and Bucky Badger.

Please join us on Monday, September 20 at 5:30 pm at Genisa Wine Bar in Janesville! You can become a sponsor of this important event in the fight against cancer in your community.

We hope to see you in September!

Coach Greg and Michelle Gard

We will follow applicable COVID-19 public health guidelines to ensure the health and safety of our guests and staff at this in-person event. All registered guests will be sent information about COVID-19 protocols prior to the event. If updated guidance requires further changes to the date, time, or location of the event, registered guests will be notified via email.