Golden K chairperson Bill Roberts introduces guest speakers from the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet at Monday's meeting. Volunteer Viola Axberg, center, and President Diane Schabo gave members an update on the daily functions of the Loan Closet. (Joanne Lindholm photo)

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Monday was a day shared by Columbus, Indigenous people and the 250-year anniversary of the United States Navy. Whichever one you celebrated, it was a day for honoring special events in this country’s history.

The Golden K opens each Monday meeting with the “Pledge to the Flag,” followed by singing “God Bless America.” Continuing the patriotic theme, Alyce Derwinski on piano and Richard Ochoa directing lead the group in singing. “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” and “Yankee Doodle Dandy” rounded out Golden K’s tribute to a special Monday.

Bill Roberts stepped into chairmanship duties, calling the meeting to order. Welcome was sung for Diane Schabo and Viola Axberg representing the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet. Happy Birthday wishes rang out for the U.S. Navy’s 250 years, Bill Roberts, age unknown, and Joe Anderson, no comment.

Sarah Gospodarek won the 50-50 drawing and got a good report from her recent doctor visit. A win-win day for her.

Robert’s thought for the day was “Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” We all are thankful for leaf blowers and mulching mowers as we prepare to manage the bounty and prepare for the next season.

Schabo, Axberg and a team of volunteers work together to provide medical support equipment to those in need. They make clients feel welcome and do whatever they can to make life easier.

Operating the Cancer Closet is a volunteer project that goes the extra mile to get rehabilitation equipment and supplies. They support by providing contact information for resources outside of their realm. This organization extends services to Dickinson County, Spread Eagle, Wis., Aurora, Wis., Niagara, Wis., and as many outlying areas as possible.

The Closet is ready to assist those looking for equipment to help them navigate through their particular health journey. An attempt is made to assist all who visit them with cancer patients having priority.

Equipment consists of various sizes of wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and bathroom hardware, such as safety bars. Cancer patients receive equipment with no return time limit, while non-cancer patients have a six months limit. Returning equipment when one has healed keeps the Closet supplied for others as needs arise.

Volunteers assist clients with the paperwork, equipment or even just a time for a quiet visit.

Donations of all kinds of equipment and supplies in good condition are accepted.

There is even a free section for distribution to anyone who needs them.

Supporters around the community have helped with donations, distribution and volunteering.

The Closet and office is at 201 E. Breitung Ave., Kingsford. They are open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Volunteers work two-hour shifts.

For more information or assistance, call 906-776-0966 or go to their website at https://dickinsoncancercloset.weebly.com/.

Everyone is encouraged to take some time to visit this facility to get the full impact of all they offer. “These are good people helping good people” as their slogan says.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford with speaker Mary Stoltz. All are welcome. Meetings are informal and informative and hot coffee will be ready.