Spirit of Courage 2024
DIAMOND
Wheels of Courage Car Club
BRONZE
Barnhart Press
Law Offices of Gallner & Pattermann, P.C.
Harrah’s and Horseshoe Casinos
*For a complete list of event sponsors visit jehfoundation.org
CRYSTAL
American National Bank
Black Hills Energy
Council Bluffs Surgical Associates, P.C.
Diagnostic Radiology, P.C.
Doll Distributing, Inc.
Frontier Savings Bank
The Graham Group, Construction Division
Heartland Oncology &
Hematology, LLC
Hy-Vee, Inc.
Iowa Western Community College
Medical Solutions
Methodist Health System
Methodist Physicians Clinic - Iowa
Radiation Oncology
Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, PC
MMC Contractors
Nebraska Cancer Specialists
ServiceMaster Restore by Schmader
U.S. Bank
Walker Tree Service
Building an Extended Family...
Edd Leach’s journey as a Spirit of Courage honoree in 2011 marked the beginning of a deeper commitment to supporting cancer patients in our community. Alongside his wife, Donna, Edd has become a pillar of support for the Spirit of Courage event. Each June, they open their hearts and their home to welcome Spirit of Courage honorees, kicking off a season of events and creating lasting bonds with the newest members of this special group. This gathering is more than just a tradition—it’s a testament to the power of connection, friendship, and shared experience. The Jennie Edmundson Foundation deeply appreciates the continued generosity of Edd and Donna Leach, whose personal battle with cancer has inspired them to help others on their journeys toward healing and hope.
“It means the world to Donna and me to be able to honor and celebrate these incredible individuals. Every year, we welcome new honorees into what has become an extended family, and we cherish the opportunity to create a positive experience for everyone. This gathering is just one way we can offer a sense of connection and support to those who need it most.”
Overcoming Adversity - Scott and Susan Hartman Where the Coffee is Always On
There are many challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, and Scott and Susan Hartman know those hardships all too well. Both have faced the loss of loved ones to cancer—Scott’s first wife, Ann, was honored as a Spirit of Courage recipient in 2008 before passing away in 2012 after a decade-long battle. Susan’s first husband, Dr. Farid Sadr, lost his own battle with cancer in 2015.
Now, Scott, who serves as the board chair for the Jennie Edmundson Foundation,
and Susan channel their personal experiences into something deeply meaningful: celebrating the strength and resilience of Spirit of Courage honorees.
Each year, they host a welcome reception on the Friday evening before the Spirit of Courage Golf Tournament and Gala, creating a beautiful and inviting space for recipients, celebrities, and guests to gather, reminisce, and build lasting memories and friendships.
“It’s incredibly meaningful for Susan and me to help honor these remarkable individuals. Hosting this event gives us the chance to bring people together in a spirit of hope and celebration. We love welcoming our newest recipients into the family, reconnecting with past honorees and their families, and sharing in their journeys as we build lasting bonds.”
SCOTT HARTMAN
EDD LEACH
Driven by Compassion for Others
WHEELS OF COURAGE CAR SHOW
This year’s Wheels of Courage Car Show brought together car enthusiasts and community members for a day filled with fun, fundraising, and support for the Jennie Edmundson Foundation’s Spirit of Courage Charitable Patient Care Fund. Held on June 22, 2024, at Quaker Steak & Lube in Council Bluffs, Iowa, the event was co-chaired by Carol Elder, Jeremy
Noel, and Pat Miller.
Together, they steered the event to success, revving up excitement and raising crucial funds for local cancer patients. With 200 cars on display, beautiful weather, great food, and plenty of places to gather, it was a day of smooth cruising for all involved.
“Every year, we’re amazed by the outpouring of support from our friends and community,” said Carol Elder.
“It’s an honor to work alongside Jeremy and Pat, knowing that every dollar raised directly impacts cancer patients in our area. It’s also a joy to see each of the Spirit of Courage recipients choose a car that resonates with them and present their award to its owner—it’s a special moment for all involved.”
Hitting the Links “Fore” Cancer Support
The 2024 Spirit of Courage Golf Tournament teed off with a mission to support local cancer patients, and it didn’t disappoint. Held on a beautiful, sunny day— though a bit toasty in the afternoon—the tournament brought together teams, celebrity guests and volunteers ready to swing “fore” a great cause. Led by golf tournament chair Carol Horner, the tournament continues to drive vital fundraising efforts for the Jennie Edmundson Foundation’s Spirit of Courage Charitable Patient Care Fund. From birdies to bogeys, every shot was a step closer to helping local cancer patients afford medications, treatments, and every day living expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries.
“Year after year, I’m continually inspired by the generosity and enthusiasm of our golfers and sponsors,” shared Carol
SOC ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Horner. “It’s been an incredible journey chairing this event over the past 20 years. I am honored to help organize this event, knowing the impact it has on local patients and families in our community.”
This year, Bobbi Calderon, a 2019 Spirit of Courage recipient, and her team from Homestyle Laundry & Dry Cleaners brought not only fun but much-needed relief for the golfers. Their “Chill Station,” offering cold wash cloths, was a huge hit, providing a refreshing break from the afternoon heat.
“It was wonderful to give back in a way that brought a little extra comfort to everyone out on the course,” said Calderon. “The Spirit of Courage event means so much to me, and being able to support it while having fun with my team makes it even more special.”
“I am honored to help organize this event, knowing the impact it has on local patients and families in our community.”
CAROL HORNER
A Night to Remember
SPIRIT OF COURAGE GALA
The 2024 Spirit of Courage Gala was the grand finale of a weekend filled with community, celebration, and generosity. This evening brought together more than 600 attendees to honor four extraordinary individuals—Travis Meier, Kathy Runde, Terry Thomas, and Stacia Thompson— our Spirit of Courage recipients, who have shown immense strength and resilience in their battles against cancer. The Jennie Edmundson Foundation was proud to celebrate their courage alongside celebrity guests, all lending their time and support to raise awareness and funds for the Spirit of Courage Charitable Patient Care Fund.
The night was also a special moment for our dedicated physicians and clinical staff, who provide exceptional care to our cancer patients year-round. Their presence at the gala was a tribute to the honorees, as they joined the celebration to recognize the journeys of both current and past recipients.
The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, moving tributes, and inspiring stories, creating an atmosphere of hope and compassion. Attendees also observed a poignant moment of silence to honor those who have lost their battle with cancer, reminding everyone of the significance of the night’s mission. Guests enjoyed complimentary beer and wine, courtesy of sponsors Doll Distributing and Hy-Vee, silent and live auctions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow supporters, all while raising funds to provide critical financial assistance to local cancer patients.
Part of the Family
OUR CELEBRITY GUESTS
Connecting Celebrities to Our Mission
Since the very beginning of the Spirit of Courage weekend, our celebrity guests have been an integral part of our event.
Coming from the worlds of entertainment, sports, and beyond—both locally and nationally—these individuals donate their time to help us honor and celebrate the strength and courage of our cancer patients. For many, this cause hits close to home, as they too have been personally touched by cancer.
Some of our celebrity guests have been part of the Spirit of Courage family for over 20 years, while others joined us for the first time this year. Whether long-time veterans or first-time participants, they contributed to the heart of the event. Throughout it all, they brought energy, compassion, and unwavering support, helping us raise awareness and funds for local cancer patients.
Their involvement strengthens the spirit of community that defines the Spirit of
Courage weekend. They are truly cherished members of our Spirit of Courage family.
“Each year, I have the honor of reaching out to potential celebrity guests, sharing our mission, and inviting them to experience the warmth and values of our Midwest community,” Bill Oldenburg commented.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see how quickly they become part of the family and how deeply they connect with our honorees and supporters.
“This event is truly special, and my wife Terry and I are proud to be a part of it.” Bill added, “A special thanks to Clodagh Slevin, my co-chair, who ensures everything runs smoothly both before and during the event.”