On July 12th, a family backyard in Tay Township became the heart of something truly powerful — a celebration of strength, love, and community. Hosted by the Kraftscik family, this year’s No One Fights Alone summer party brought together friends, neighbours, and supporters to stand alongside those facing cancer.
Together, they raised an incredible $35,075, which will be shared equally between two local charities: the Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation and the Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre (GBCSC).
“This event is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a celebration of strength, unity and the unwavering spirit of our community,” shared Martin Kraftscik, who hosted the event with his wife, Nicole, who is currently facing stage 4 breast cancer. “To the survivors, fighters and families here today, your courage is the reason we continue to have this party.”
Supporting Cancer Care Close to Home
Half of the funds raised will go toward new Mammography equipment at GBGH, helping to launch a vital screening program that will serve the entire North Simcoe region. Set to open in early 2026, the program will offer advanced diagnostic services, including:
- 2D imaging
- 3D tomographic imaging
- Stereotactic biopsies
- Wire localizations
- Ultrasound-guided biopsies
“We are so close to fully funding Mammography at GBGH,” says Robyn Kaczanowski, Community Giving Officer with the GBGH Foundation. “It’s something that touches so many lives in our community, and we’re incredibly grateful to the Kraftscik family and all their guests for supporting this cause with such heart.”
The other half of the funds will support the Brian & Anita Millet GAP Fund at the Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre, a program that helps ease the financial burden for local cancer patients. From gas to parking to accommodations for out-of-town treatments, this fund helps make cancer care more accessible.
“Brian Millet considered himself fortunate. Not because he was diagnosed with cancer, but because he could afford to be treated,” says Paul Eichhorn, Manager, Fundraising & Stewardship at the GBCSC. “He and his wife Anita started the GAP Fund so others could get that same support. We’re honoured that the Kraftscik family chose to continue this legacy with their gift.”
Local fundraising events like No One Fights Alone are about so much more than dollars raised. They’re about standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our neighbours and ensuring that compassionate care is always within reach.
Want to learn more about supporting health care close to home? Click here.
