During his battle with leukemia, Casey Hanke and his family members were frequent guests at Hope Lodge in Marshfield. Hope Lodge offers cancer patients and their caregivers a free place to stay during often lengthy treatments at Marshfield’s medical centers.
Casey passed away last year at the age of 22, but his family hasn’t forgotten the kindness shown to them at Hope Lodge. Casey’s Ride, a poker run held Sept. 21 in Casey’s honor, raised over $1,000 with all proceeds going to Hope Lodge.
Hope Lodge was founded 10 years ago and is funded primarily through donations. The 22-bed facility saves patients and caregivers the expense of lodging or long drives back and forth for treatment.
“Last year we saved a half million dollars in lodging costs for guests that stayed there,” said Hope Lodge night manager Sandy Frederickson.
Casey’s family members spent many nights at Hope Lodge during his illness, said his father, Darrell Hanke.
“There was not one night we left him alone,” Darrell said.
Cancer patients from all over the country seek treatment in Marshfield, and many stay at Hope Lodge.
Casey’s Ride was based at Knuckleheadz on Hwy. 64 west of Merrill. The inaugural event drew 78 riders. Darrell said plans are to make the ride an annual event to benefit Hope Lodge.