Nearly 500 people gathered this month for the annual Carlson Farms - Farm to Table dinner, raising more than $100,000 to support pediatric programs at Bronson!

Hosted by Norm and Karen Carlson, the dinner brings people together to share in a delicious three course meal, live entertainment and a silent auction. Proceeds from this year's event will support a new ventilator and software needed to treat some of the smallest patients in Bronson Children’s Hospital and group dinners for families with babies in the NICU. Donations will also fund new pediatric exam beds and other child-friendly upgrades to help enhance the experience for patients at Bronson LakeView Family Care.

"It fills our hearts to be able to host this event, and to see so many people who are not only enjoying themselves, but are supporting children and families," Karen says. "I just love having all of these folks out to our farm," says Norm. "It's such a wonderful feeling of community and fellowship that happens when people sit down for a meal together. And to do that for the kids makes it that much better. It's all about the kids."

This year's meal was overseen by Executive Chef Jason McClellan, 600 Kitchen and Bar, and Chef Kris McDonough, Bell's Eccentric Cafe, and was presented with the help of dozens of volunteers.

Often patients undergoing cancer treatment have to make frequent visits to one of Bronson's cancer centers for chemotherapy, radiation or check-ups. For some, finding a way to and from appointments can be challenging.

At 87, Lee Davis is a cancer survivor. During her care over the last two years, she received assistance with transportation to Bronson Cancer Center - Battle Creek. "I praise the Lord that I do have people that are helping me," says Lee. Her son, Michael Jones, explains that without a car, he doesn't have the ability to drive his mom, so the assistance from Bronson Health Foundation's Cancer Center Fund "makes a world of difference."

When expectant patients receive the news of a Down syndrome diagnosis, it can be overwhelming. We are grateful that generously donated funds help us support our Bronson Maternal Fetal Medicine patients by providing this book "Diagnosis to Delivery," available in both English and Spanish. 

Nicole Wright, a genetic counselor at the Maternal Fetal Medicine practice, recently shared more about the impact of the books in the story below.