Golden K chair Lois Outcelt, right, introduces Diane Schabo, president of the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet, as the guest speaker at the Golden K meeting Monday. She talked about the services and medical supplies they loan to area cancer patients. The closet welcomes donations of money and equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and shower chairs. (Joanne Lindholm photo)

KINGSFORD — Give a shout, school’s out. Summer is here, there is no doubt. Check the calendar and mark the date. Summer activities will not wait. It’s time to setup for camping, summer sports, and fun in the sun.

Golden K seniors begin their Mondays gathering in the Presbyterian Church fellowship hall with chair person Lois Outcelt initiates opening ceremonies. Alyce Derwinski settles down at the piano and hands a list of songs to Richard Ochoa. “Seems Like Old Times” begins the musical journey, taking a “Sentimental Journey” and “Side By Side.” These were the oldies for the day as a new week began.

The Welcome Song greeted guest speaker Diane Schabo, president of the Cancer Unit Loan Closet. Pat Polzen happily picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollars reflected everyone grateful to be together.

Members were reminded there will be no meeting next Monday because of the Vacation Bible School event at the church.

Outcelt’s thought for the day challenges one to “Judge success by the degree that you enjoy love, peace, and hope.”

There will be bingo at Optalis on Thursday and at Freeman’s on Friday. Volunteers are needed around 2 p,m. The residents enjoy bingo time and anyone can drop in to help. If you can give an hour on Thursday or Friday, just show up and join the fun.

The Cancer Unit Loan Closet has been helping local and surrounding areas for several years. It is a volunteer project that goes the extra mile to provide rehabilitation equipment and supplies. They extend services to outside areas as far as resources allow. They also help with paperwork and advice, giving cancer patients first priority. Navigating through the health journey can be stressful. Volunteers at the Cancer Center strive to make that time easier.

Equipment is as varied as is the need. Cancer patients can use equipment for an unspecified amount of time. Other diagnosis have a six-month limit. Returning equipment in good working condition is vital for future use by other individuals in need. Limited free equipment may be available if the center has any excess items. The center works without state or federal funding. Donations are welcomed for equipment or supplies. Some of the equipment available include wheelchairs, walkers, safety bars, canes, commodes and shower chairs. Incontinence items are also available. The center currently needs more wheelchairs and brief-style incontinence garments.

The Cancer Loan Closet recently updated its method of providing nutritional drinks. Qualifying clients can now purchase their product at local retailers and get reimbursed at the center. This offers a better selection of flavors and brands.

The center depends on community support through donations and fundraising events. Two events are upcoming where you can show your support. The first is the Sunday FUNday featuring Kaylee Hernandez on Sunday, June 28, at Sandstone Terrace in downtown Iron Mountain. This event takes place from 4 to 9 p.m.

The second fundraising event is a half-marathon on Saturday, Sept. 28. Registration information can be found on this website: https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/MI/IronMountain/IMRTHalfMarathon.

The Cancer Unit Loan Closet, 201 E. Breitung Ave. in Kingsford, is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Golden K will resume regular meetings at 10 a.m. Monday, June 22, at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.