CONNECTING LIVES
YOUR PARTNER AGAINST CANCER
APPLE JAM
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST | 10 AM - 5 PM
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 21, as the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation proudly presents Apple Jam — a beloved fall celebration that brings our community together through music, food, and giving back.
Formerly known as Applefest, this event has grown into a must-attend tradition for families in the Bismarck-Mandan area. Last year, more than 3,000 attendees came together to help raise an incredible $60,000 to support local cancer patients — and we can’t wait to make 2025 even bigger!
HYDROGEL:
ADDED PROTECTION DURING PROSTATE CANCER TREATMENT
The Bismarck Cancer Center is proud to offer hydrogel, an advanced option that provides added protection for men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
This gel-like substance is injected before treatment and creates a temporary space between the prostate and rectum. By physically separating these structures, hydrogel helps shield healthy tissue from unnecessary radiation exposure.
The minimally invasive procedure enhances both comfort and safety. Best of all, the hydrogel is naturally absorbed by the body after treatment is complete.
By reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes, hydrogel is another way we’re delivering innovative, compassionate care — close to home.
A FULL DAY OF FUN
Join us at Buckstop Junction for a fun-filled day featuring live music from Brianna Helbling, That 60’s Band, Slow Burn, Nerve Impulse and many more! From the blacksmiths and tractor show to hayrides and a visit from Vivian the Pink Fire Truck, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
SUPPORTING LOCAL CANCER PATIENTS
Over the past 18 years, this event has raised nearly $900,000, providing critical services like lodging assistance, transportation, counseling, and holistic care for cancer patients and their families. When you attend Apple Jam, you help ensure no one faces cancer alone.
JOIN US THIS FALL
Bring your family and friends and help us keep this tradition going strong. Let’s celebrate community, hope, and music while making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
SEE YOU AT APPLE JAM 2025!
PAWS OF COMFORT:
EXPANDING OUR PET THERAPY PROGRAM
At the Bismarck Cancer Center, we know that healing goes beyond medical treatment. Our pet therapy program brings smiles, comfort, and companionship to individuals and families during some of their most challenging days. There’s nothing quite like the wag of a tail or the gentle nuzzle of a therapy animal to help lift spirits and ease stress.
Our beloved therapy pets and their dedicated handlers visit guests regularly, offering moments of joy, calm, and connection. However, as our program grows, so does our need for more certified therapy animals.
If you have a friendly, well-trained therapycertified dog and would like to share their love and comfort with BCC, we’d love to hear from you!
To learn more about what it takes to become part of our pet therapy team, please contact Sara at 701-222-6119 . Together, we can continue to bring hope, smiles, and wagging tails to everyone we serve.
Welcome, DR. JOON K. LEE!
The Bismarck Cancer Center is excited to welcome Dr. Joon K. Lee, M.D., BoardCertified Radiation Oncologist , to our team of dedicated cancer care experts.
Dr. Lee brings over five years of experience in radiation oncology, with a strong background in patient-centered care, clinical research, and advanced radiation therapy techniques. He is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology and comes to Bismarck from Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue, Washington.
Dr. Lee is also no stranger to North Dakota, having previously served as a radiation oncologist at Trinity Health in Minot and as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences.
Dr. Lee completed his residency in Radiation Oncology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, where he was Chief Resident. He earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Washington.
With an impressive record of research publications, national presentations, and grant-funded studies, Dr. Lee has made significant contributions to advancements in the treatment of prostate, esophageal, and gynecological cancers, among others. He is an active member of the American Society for Radiation Oncology, the American Brachytherapy Society, and the Korean Society for Radiation Oncology.
“I am honored to join a team so deeply
committed to excellence in cancer care,” said Dr. Lee. “I look forward to serving patients across the region and working together to ensure the highest quality of care and support during their cancer journey.”
The addition of Dr. Lee reflects the Bismarck Cancer Center’s continued commitment to expanding access to expert, compassionate care for individuals throughout North Dakota and the surrounding region. Please join us in giving Dr. Lee a warm welcome!
For more information about our team or services, visit www.bismarckcancercenter.com or call 701-222-6100
THE ART OF LIVING CALENDAR
Bismarck Cancer Center is seeking art for the 2026 edition of “The Art of Living” a 12-month desk calendar.
Photography and artwork of all styles and media will be considered. Art can directly illustrate aspects of the cancer experience, but it is not required. We encourage patients, family, friends, physicians, employees, board members, donors and regional artists to submit work for consideration. You do not need to be a professional artist to be part of this amazing project. The deadline to submit artwork is October 24 .
Please email an image of your artwork to skelsch@bismarckcancercenter.com or call Sara at 701-222-6119
SUPPORT THE BISMARCK - MANDAN PROFESSIONAL WOMEN IN BUILDING ROOM REFRESH PROJECT
The Bismarck Cancer Center is proud to partner with the Bismarck-Mandan Professional Women in Building for a special project aimed at supporting those on a cancer journey in a meaningful and lasting way.
As part of their Room Refresh Project, our patient apartments have been selected for a much-needed update—and we need your help to make it happen.
Every day, individuals facing one of life’s most difficult battles walk through our doors. Many stay in our housing for several weeks while undergoing treatment. These rooms become their home away from home.
The Bismarck-Mandan Professional Women in Building’s goal is to raise enough money to transform and update at least four apartments.
If you’d like to help bring hope and healing to someone in the fight of their life, please consider donating.
To learn more, contact the BismarckMandan Professional Women in Building at 701.269.1307 or email bismanpwbgmail.com
Make a difference today at: https://give.classy.org/refreshhope .
GET TO KNOW YOUR TEAM
ONDREA
Ondrea has been with the Bismark Cancer Center for over six years, starting as a Medical Scribe for Dr. Reynolds and recently moving into a new role with the Central ND Cancer Registry, where she’s training to become a certified Oncology Data Specialist. She and her husband Scott have been married 35 years and enjoy lake time, visiting their daughters in Minneapolis, and life with their four cats. “BCC has truly been my favorite workplace. I’m so grateful for the chance to keep learning and growing.”
SARAH
Sarah, a PRN nurse at the Bismark Cancer Center, is originally from Glasgow, MT, and brings 17 years of nursing experience. She’s married to Cody and mom to two boys, Brecken and Hudson. Whether it’s hockey in the winter or lake time in the summer, her family stays active — including their lab, Ellie. “Oncology has always been my passion. I’m so happy to be a part of this team!”
A HOME AWAY FROM HOME:
EASING THE BURDEN FOR CANCER PATIENTS
Each year, the Bismarck Cancer Center is a place of hope and healing for more than 1,000 individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. Individuals come from every corner of our region — many traveling hundreds of miles from small towns and rural communities — to receive expert radiation therapy close to home. Our mission is not only to provide the best medical care possible, but to surround each person with the support they need to face treatment with strength and dignity.
For many patients, this journey means spending weeks away from home, family, and work — an emotional and financial burden that can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation offers 20 fully furnished apartments just minutes from our Center. These safe, comfortable spaces are a true home away from home for individuals and their caregivers, helping them rest and heal without worrying about where they’ll sleep at night.
In 2024, our apartments provided over 4,500 nights of comfort to 285 individuals and caregivers, easing stress and helping them focus on what matters most: healing. This housing program has become an essential part of our mission to care for the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.
As we look ahead, we’re committed to keeping these apartments welcoming, comfortable, and affordable for everyone who needs them. If you’d like to help, there are many ways to support this special program — whether it’s a small gift toward a night’s stay or donating gently used household items to help furnish our apartments.
Every act of generosity makes a difference during one of life’s most difficult journeys. Thank you for helping us bring hope and comfort to our neighbors when they need it most.
If you’d like to learn more about our current needs or ways to support patient housing, please get in touch with Lolly at 701-222-6125
BCC EARNS JOINT COMMISSION RE - ACCREDITATION IN 2025
The Bismarck Cancer Center is proud to announce that it has once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for ambulatory care. This re-accreditation highlights BCC’s continued commitment to providing safe, high-quality cancer care to our region.
The Joint Commission’s expert surveyors conducted a comprehensive on-site review, assessing everything from infection prevention and medication safety to emergency preparedness and patient experience. Their findings confirmed that BCC meets or exceeds rigorous national standards.
“We view this accreditation as the Gold Seal for patient care,” said Amy Gross, Executive Director. “It reflects the dedication of our entire team and provides a framework to improve safety, quality continuously, and the patient experience.”
Joint Commission accreditation is a symbol of excellence recognized nationwide, and we’re honored to maintain this distinction in 2025.
NEW EMPLOYEES
JOYCE
Joyce joined the Bismark Cancer Center in June as a nurse. Originally from Jamestown, she graduated from the University of Mary. In her free time, Joyce enjoys spending time with her kids, playing volleyball, and hitting the golf course. Her favorite Foundation event? The BCCF Golf Tournament!
KEANA
Keana began her role as a Radiation Therapist at the Bismarck Cancer Center in July. Originally from Dickinson and a graduate of NDSU, Keana is an avid fan of golf and outdoor activities. She previously worked at the Bismarck Cancer Center and is excited to return to the team. Keana says her favorite part of the job is working with patients: “I love building relationships with each patient.”
HALLIE
Hallie joined the BCC team in May as our Outreach and Education Coordinator. Originally from Parker, Colorado, she holds a bachelor’s degree in health care administration and a master’s degree in public administration from Grand Canyon University. Hallie says: “I love working at BCC and being part of the events. The BCC and BCCF teams work diligently to ensure that patients are supported and treated like family.”
FOUNDATION EVENTS
BOXERS AND BEER
The 9th Annual Boxers & Beer event, hosted by McQuade Distributing, returned to the BismarckMandan community and brought in over $60,000 to support local cancer patients through the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation! Held at the Bismarck Elks Lodge, this fun evening featured a live auction of one-of-a-kind boxer art, an online auction, and plenty of laughs — all while raising awareness for male-specific cancers like prostate and testicular cancer.
PROJECT HOPE
We kicked off Project Hope Week on May 6–10, bringing together to raise awareness and show support for those impacted by cancer. Over 230 businesses joined in, dressing each day in colors that represent different cancers. This year’s focus was on skin, prostate, lung, breast cancers, and survivorship, with an emphasis on education, prevention, and early detection. Together, we spread hope and information to help our community stay healthy and informed.
TRACTOR TREK
On May 31, tractor enthusiasts hit the road from Buckstop Junction to Lincoln and back, raising a record $32,000 for the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation! The day included a silent auction, bucket raffle, and a tractor raffle, with tickets still on sale until the big drawing at Apple Jam in September.
BISMARCK CANCER CENTER NIGHT AT THE LARKS
On June 12, the Bismarck Cancer Center teamed up with the Bismarck Larks for a special game night! Fans enjoyed a superhero-themed jersey auction, a miracle minute, and a 50/50 raffle to benefit BCC. Longtime supporters Ron and Joyce Tello were recognized for their dedication, and Tanner Stavn, BCC DNP, threw out the first pitch.
CARZ - N - CURES
The 9th Annual Carz-n-Cures, organized by Terry Schreiner and his family, was a huge success! Nearly 200 cars, motorcycles, rescue vehicles, and Vivian the Pink Fire Truck filled the ND DOT east parking lot for a day of cars, auctions, raffles, and live music. Thanks to generous participants and supporters, this year’s event raised a record $40,500 — almost double last year!
BISMARCK CANCER CENTER FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
The 4th Annual BCCF Charity Golf Open was held at Prairie West Golf Course on June 19 and sold out again this year! One hundred forty-four golfers on 36 teams enjoyed a fun day of golf, Berg’s Towing crane ball drop, an online auction and a banquet afterward.
UNITE FOR HOPE WALK & SURVIVORSHIP CELEBRATION
On June 23, around 250 survivors, families, and supporters gathered at Sertoma Park for our Survivorship Celebration and Unite for Hope Walk. The evening was filled with music from Cotton Wood, cupcakes, and Coldstone Ice Cream — a sweet way to celebrate the strength of those impacted by cancer. Nearly 100 walkers joined the Unite for Hope Walk, stepping out to honor loved ones and show that no one faces cancer alone.
MANDAN RODEO
Mandan Rodeo Days were held July 2-4th. Bismarck Cancer Center volunteers helped with a silent auction and sold 50/50 raffle tickets. The Mandan Rodeo also partnered with BCC on a charity raffle with partial proceeds benefitting the Rodeo Association and the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.
MANDAN ROAD RACE
The Mandan 4th of July Road Race is a beloved tradition and an important part of Mandan’s Independence Day celebrations. Partial proceeds from the race help support the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation. This year, the event saw a record-setting crowd, with over 700 runners and walkers taking part! We’re so grateful for our community’s enthusiasm and the event organizers’ continued support in helping local cancer patients.
UPCOMING EVENTS
CLAYS AGAINST CANCER - SEPTEMBER 12
Aim to make a difference! Our 5th annual Clays Against Cancer event returns to Capital City Sporting Clays on Thursday, September 12. Compete in a flurry format with your squad of five, and enjoy door prizes, a silent auction, and dinner. Spots are limited — register your team today at bismarckcancercenter.com!
APPLE JAM - SEPTEMBER 21
Join us for Apple Jam, our vibrant, family-friendly fall music festival! Formerly known as Applefest, this community favorite celebrates its 19th year on Sunday, September 21, at Buckstop Junction. Enjoy live music, delicious food, local art and craft vendors, and family-friendly fall activities. There’s something for everyone — celebrate community, music, and hope!
BUCKS FOR BRAS - OCTOBER 23
Save the date for the 14th annual Bucks for Bras, happening Thursday, October 23, at the Bismarck Elks Club. This unforgettable evening celebrates the creativity of local artists through the glamorization of the brassiere, with one-of-a-kind pieces auctioned live. Enjoy appetizers, drink specials, and an online silent auction too. Find all the details at bucksforbras.com.
SPOOK OUT CANCER - OCTOBER 25
Get ready for a frightfully fun day at the 11th Annual Spook Out Cancer event at Puklich Chevrolet on Saturday, October 25! Throughout October, Puklich Chevrolet is committed to raising $50,000 for the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation by donating $100 for every vehicle purchased. On event day, bring the kids out for trunk-or-treating, bid on items in the online auction, and help those on a cancer journey.
Special Thanks
TO THOSE WHO HAVE DONATED TO THE BISMARK CANCER CENTER FOUNDATION SINCE OUR LAST NEWSLETTER
GOLD $20,000 AND UP
Carz-n-Cures
Charles & Carol Iten
David & Angella Wald
Tractor Trek
SILVER $10,000 - $19,9999
Dr. Ron & Joyce Tello
BRONZE $5,000 - $9,999
Dr. Cole Kreofsky
Dr. Robert Reynolds
Eric & Andrea Kilzer
Minot Curling Club, Inc.
North Dakota Community Foundation
BUILDER 1000-4999
Dale Heinert
Harold & Maureen Olson
Impact Foundation
Mavis Stevens
ND Rise
Thrivent Financial
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
Maynard Wolf
Barbot Funeral Homes, Inc
BELIEVER $100-999
Andrew & KariAnn Buntrock
Arnold & Karen Zelinsky
Bob & Jill Wiese
Bonnie Dacar
Carol Doll
Charlene C Roerick
Clifford Bentz
Darrel & Diane Cuskelly
Dwight & Valorie Hetletved
Gerald & Ramona Birdsell
Gloria Hamling
Janice L Elhard
Jerry & Sandy Heck
Keith Huschka
Kenneth Renz
Loretta Marshik
Marti Peterson
Matt & Rebecca Fricke
Matthew Schaible
Michael & Sherri Gladue
ND Bridal Experience
Renee Daffinrud
Roger Will
Sydney Nupen
Teresa Dillman
Terry & Vera Woelber
Tim & Glenda Anderson
Tom & Carol Neigum
Veterans Of Foreign Wars 1326
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
Arlene Olson
Larry & Betty Falkenstein
Dale Sander
Arlys Sander
Dennis & Joy Buchholtz
Jeffery Haugen
Linda McKenzie
Richard & Lynda Risan
Tracy Miller
Wayne & Terry Beutler
Dennis Hattel
Carol Hattel
Dianna Hegle
Raymond Hegle
Doren Brandt
June Miller
Todd & Erika Steenerson
George Stevens
Donna Creek
Kermit Lenneh
Jackie Knowlen
Larry Metzger
Luella Metzger
Nancy Bohl
Marc & Esther Sundquist
Olga Hovet
Ronald & Marvel Ritzke
HONOR DONATIONS
Romeo (Romulus) Norris
Grace Bergan
Tony Gross
Edward Nafus
Heather Schiefelbein
Stacy Eider
GIVER UP TO $99
Adriane Knightstep
Brian & Cody Heimes
Charles Bosch
Deanna Mussatti
Dennis Enger
Duane Roth
Earnest Construction LLC
Gerald Johnson
Jill Becher
Kenneth and Kathy
Jarolimek
Kevin & Hildy Oberlander
Maureen Moynihan
Michael Hoffart
Roman & Donna Weiler
Steven Anderson
Tom & Arlene Meissel
Valerie Heisler
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
Barbara Bell
Luther Bell
Bernice Carlson
Marcia Paulson
Betty Nathan
Aldeen Klain
Beverly Lyons
Beverly Lyons
Brenda Nagel
Judy Donahue
Bonnie Rembolt
Charles & Cheryl Seil
Catherine Ann Joppa
Dennis & Joyce Smith
Clarice Hofer
Vyron Lelm
Dale Sander
Danni Pinnick
Janet Kosanda
Sharon Knutson
Delores Olson
Rhonda Jolliffe
Doran Brandt
Buster & Connie Langowski
Jennifer Schneider
Lori Ledahl
Ross Schramm
Steven & Connie Irey
Eddie Dockter
Delaino & Norleen Helm
Floyd Frieze
Mary Kae Kelsch
Gary Kincaid
George & Elaine Fried
Glen Siewert
George & Elaine Fried
Helen Wittrup
Aldeen Klain
Jane Miller
Ralph & Julie Driessen
Jeff Wallen
Kerry & Bonnie Stone
Jerome
Schwartzenberger
Christine Schwartzenberger
Jim Camp
Aldeen Klain
Judy Kocis
George & Elaine Fried
Leo Anderson
Ralph & Julie Driessen
Troy & Twila Leingang
Leonard Porter
Lynn Tweden
Lillian Brition
Aldeen Klain
Melissa Thune
David & Marian Ellefson
Mildred Swanson
Aldeen Klain
LaMoyne & Cynthia Vossler
Marshall & Patricia Maxwell
Nellie Irene Jeffrey
Dean & Connie Krebsbach
Phyllis Wahl
Tracey Sand
Richard Baer
Edie Baer
Sister Susan Berger
Paul & Linda Schadewald
Terry Kristenson
Annette Kinsala
Molly Traynor
HONOR DONATIONS
Andrea Diehl
Mel & Gail Keator
Dale Sander
Carole Peterson
Gerald & Jan Wieler
Mari Keller
Edward Selensky
Patty Denn
Leila Bender
Mel & Gail Keator
Marvel Christenson
Sharon Knutson
Southwest Cancer Survivors
Jeffery & Jolene
Hendrickx
Susan Bauer
George & Elaine Fried
IN KIND
Century High School
Cheer
Charles & Renee
Pederson
Dean & Connie
Krebsbach
Doug & Amy Remboldt
Flickertail Woodcarvers
Give 5 To Cancer
Harold & Marie Mathisen
House of Prayer Lutheran Church
Irene Felchle
Morgan Clagett
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
Judy Fitzgerald
Harold & Marie Mathisen
Sharon Walter
Linda Randolph
HONOR DONATIONS
Mason Stehley
Linda Randolph
EVENT SPONSORS
Advanced Surgical
Aramark
Artisan Homes
BCBS of ND
Beauty Renew
BEK TV
Broadway Grill and Tavern Cedric Theel Inc.
CHI
Coborns
Crown Entertainment
Drip Drop Sprinklers
Edward Jones
Edward Jones
Elbow Room
Enticed V3NU3
First International Bank & Trust
Furry Friends
Hebron Brick Company
Hideaway
HIT, Inc.
IHeart
Image Printing
Mann Signs
McQuade Distributing
Midco
Northwestern Mutual Obrians, Inc.
Paramount Builders Inc
Puklich
Starion
Sunkissed Tanning
Superior Sealing
Tand Construction
Tap’n Tavern
Team Torque Inc.
The Moose Club
Wing City
While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of our donations and memorials, please contact us at 701-222-6145 with corrections.
Our Mission
It is the mission of the Bismarck Cancer Center to make locally available, the highest quality, state-of-the-art radiation therapy services to persons with cancer within the Bismarck service area. Such services shall be delivered, insofar as possible, without regard to reimbursement, and always in a supportive, compassionate, and caring manner, and will include needed wrap-around services to both patients and their families, educational services, prevention and early detection initiatives, and survivorship programs.
