Angel Fund is sadden by the recent death of Kinney resident Deb Bachel, a cancer fighter and longtime cancer advocate.

Also known as “Grandma B,” she was known for organizing benefits, especially those that assisted cancer patients.

“I might not have helped them with their chemo,” she told the MDN in 2019. “…But I helped them mentally and with financial woes.”

Bachel became known to Angel Fund on behalf of the Sand Lake Shuffle, an annual fundraiser for cancer patients held at Voyageur’s Sand Lake Resort at the Britt ByPass.

In May 2017, she presented Angel Fund with a $4,000 check to provide financial assistance to Northeastern Minnesota residents battling cancer (see photo; Deb is third from the left).

Bachel had been involved with the Sand Lake Shuffle since her daughter, Kelly, battled cancer from age 2 to 18. Kelly eventually succumbed to the disease in 1999.

In 2015, Bachel herself was diagnosed with uterine cancer, received treatment and went into remission.

Her other daughter’s husband, Bobby Kintner, died at age 54 in October 2017 after a grueling 24-month fight with colon cancer.

In 2018, Bachel was diagnosed with Stage 4 endometrial cancer and once again underwent treatment.

Angel Fund had the honor of “gifting” both Bachel and Kintner.

For us, Bachel’s legacy will be her generosity and association with the Sand Lake Shuffle – the work she was most proud of as well.

“That was always my baby,” she said of the Shuffle.

Our sympathies to her family, and may she rest in peace.

National Cancer Survivor’s Day has been set aside to “demonstrate that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality.” Observed annually on the first Sunday in June, TODAY is a way for survivors to share their journey and offer hope and inspiration to those who have been newly diagnosed.

Cancer survivors know the emotions and challenges associated with receiving a cancer diagnosis. They also know where the resources and support are for newly diagnosed cancer patients. The day encourages a celebration for survivors and their families. The day also offers a wellspring of support and outreach to cancer patients everywhere.

Anchor of Hope 5K Date: 5/23/2020 Start Time: 09:00:00 Price: $30 – increases to $35 on 5/1/2020 Description:  2nd Annual Anchor of Hope 5k Run/Walk  Saturday May 23, 2020.  This years race will be held in Mt. Iron, MN  in honor of Steve and Sherry Norvitch.  Steve and Sherry have been married for 40 years and are parents of 3 and Grandparent to 3.  On July 5, 2019 Steve was diagnosed with stage 4, pancreatic cancer and has been undergoing pallative chemo therapy.  Steve worked in the family business, prior to becoming co-owner for over 40 years He was a Firefighter for the City of Mt. Iron for 22 years, being Assistant Fire Chief for 19 of those years.   Steve and Sherry appreciate the tremendous support that has been shown to them.  Steve also desires to share the proceeds with others who are also fighting cancer, Angel Fund and Care Partners. Race will begin at the library in old downtown Mt. Iron at 5742 Mountain Ave. Mt. Iron MN. 55768.  Packet pickup will also be at this location and begin at 7:30 am the day of the race.  Registration is $30.00 increasing to $35.00 on May 1, 2020.  Registration includes T-shirt and chip timed bib.  T-shirts gauranteed when registered online by May 15th. Race will begin at 9 am, with coffee and pastries available before the race.  Burgers and hotdogs will be  grilled by the Mt. Iron Fire Department and Triple Crown Catering and available for purchase at the finish in the park from 10am -12-pm.  Location: Mountain Iron, MN

Visit Range Runners to register for this event.