Cherished community members have been hit hard by cancer over the years. Locals are now punching back with grassroots efforts like the nonprofit Team Heeb. A packed San Juan Brewery showed the need of such an organization and the island support during the organization’s Bingo Night fundraiser on Feb. 5.

“The goal wasn’t just financial, but community engagement,” explained Ashley Dutton, one leading members of Team Heeb. With 150 people turning up, both of those goals were met and surpassed.

The group formed a few years ago when Katie Heeb was diagnosed with cancer. Heeb has been an integral member of the community, and had herself lossed loved onesto the disease. The outpouring of support as she and her family worked their way through her medical journey inspired the formation of a nonprofit. The original softball fundraiser is reflected in the name Team Heeb. That event was successful enough the group expanded to help even more residents.

Currently, half the board, according to Dutton, is comprised of those either currently undergoing or those who have already gone through treatment. This personal knowledge of battling the disease helps Tean Heeb understand what the individuals the group is assisting are going through.

Today, with medical breakthroughs, the chances of surviving cancer are higher than ever before. But, Dutton asked, “What does that look like? How can we support them through their journey?”

The mission is to support island cancer patients and their families with everything from assistance with mortgage payments, homeopathic medicines, insurance co-pays, sports fees or school needs, and more.

“The intention is to take the pressure off. Life doesn’t stop,” Dutton said.

Grants from the nonprofit are typically $5,000. Applications can be found on the website at https://www.teamheebsji.org/.

Cady Wilson, another integral community member and longtime islander diagnosed with cancer, was the keynote speaker, according to Dutton.

“She talked about why these initiatives [grassroots efforts like Team Heeb] are so important.”

Fun was also had – islanders vied to take home first place. Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor President Patty Brightman was the winner.

For those interested in becoming involved, a date has already been set for the softball fundraiser, Aug. 9, and there is plenty of availability for sponsors.

“For businesses, it’s a really great way to support the community. We can help form a team, or you can form it yourself, and you get T-shirts with your business name on it,” Dutton said.

Visit https://www.teamheebsji.org/ to learn about signing up to sponsor, or to donate to Team Heeb.