St. Albans (July 17, 2024) – This spring’s 25th Run/Walk for Jim raised an incredible $12,000 in support of the Jim Bashaw Cancer and Catastrophic Illness Fund. The Run/Walk for Jim thanked all their community sponsors and members of the community who helped make this year’s run a success even in rainy weather. Peter Wright, CEO of Northwestern Medical Center accepted the proceeds raised from the event on behalf of Jim Bashaw Cancer and Catastrophic Illness Fund. 

“These funds mean a lot to those struggling with unexpected costs from cancer or catastrophic illnesses. Sometimes the help is with medication and other times it can be help getting a ride, there is just so much to tackle when you are facing these health battles. NMC is always moved by the generosity and kindness that our community brings to every Run/Walk for Jim event,” said Peter J. Wright, FACHE, President & Chief Executive Officer of Northwestern Medical Center. 

The Jim Bashaw Cancer and Catastrophic Illness Fund provides financial assistance to people in Franklin and Grand Isle counties who are struggling with cancer or a catastrophic illness.  Since its inception, the fund has distributed over 1,880 grants totaling $861,076.28 in financial assistance.  NMC is proud to partner in distributing these funds of hope.   

Some examples of support requests include: 

• To pay for lodging and gas to be able to see a specialist out of state 

• To help get a patient’s car back on the road to get to their appointments 

• To provide a load of wood to get through the winter 

• To help pay monthly expenses while out on medical leave following mastectomy surgery 

• To provide support for a senior on a on a fixed income when the cost of traveling to appointments makes it challenging to still have money for food at the end of the month 

• To plow a patient’s driveway so caregivers can pick her up to bring her to her appointments  

 

Photo caption: Back row, left to right are: Director of Communications Katharine Laddison, Shari Bashaw, CEO Peter Wright.