The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation recently hosted its 38th annual Charity Open, presented by C.D. Smith Construction, Inc. and Michels Corporation, celebrating another successful year supporting local hospice and cancer patient care. Since 1989, the Charity Open has raised more than $9.4 million.

Thanks to the generosity of those attending and sponsoring the event, the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation raised approximately $730,000 – surpassing last year’s event by more than $200,000.

Proceeds from this year’s event are supporting SSM Health Hospice Home of Hope and SSM Health Cancer Care services within the greater Fond du Lac area – helping ensure that all patients have access to these vital services regardless of their ability to pay.

“It’s difficult to put into words the outstanding and truly generous support that our hospice and cancer care services received during this year’s Charity Open,” says Mason Gravelle, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation philanthropy director. “Throughout the day, we were inspired by powerful stories of hope and compassion that highlighted the lives of the patients and families we serve. We are profoundly grateful for the generosity and kindness that continue to make this important work possible.”

As with previous years, the evening dinner featured the story of a local family benefiting from SSM Health at Home Hospice care.

This year’s story honored Jessica Ann Smith – a devoted wife, loving mother of three, daughter, sister, and friend, and her cancer journey.

“Even as she faced brain cancer, Jess met each day with remarkable strength, grace, and an unwavering focus on others rather than herself,” according to Gravelle. “We are deeply grateful to Jess’ family for sharing her story and allowing her legacy to inspire others. Through their generosity, more local patients and families facing cancer and end-of-life journeys will receive the compassionate care, comfort, and dignity they deserve.”

The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation Charity Open was led by Drs. Tadeo Diaz Balderrama and Crystal Kleiber Balderrama as senior chairpersons with Brian and Jennifer Baker joining as junior chairpersons.

This year’s major sponsors were C.D. Smith Construction, Inc., Michels Corporation, The Colwin & Morasch Families, Jack Twohig’s Floor Covering, Holiday Automotive, Stuart’s Landscaping & Garden Center, Inc., Lakeside Wealth Management, LLC, Quest Interiors and Steve Victor.

To learn more, call 920-926-5418.

The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation hosted a successful Charity Open with support from Drs. Tadeo Diaz Balderrama and Crystal Kleiber Balderrama (left), as senior chairpersons, and Brian and Jennifer Baker (right), joining as junior chairpersons.

Date posted: August 31, 2026