On Tuesday, the Fort Dodge softball team will host a Strikeout Cancer game when the Dodgers face Dallas Center-Grimes in a JV/Varsity doubleheader at Rogers Sports Complex.

The JV2 game starts at 4 p.m., with JV1 at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at approximately 7 p.m.

The Pride Softball youth program will be collecting a free-will donation for the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center in Fort Dodge to help support patients receiving treatment locally.

“There are so many different ways we are able to support patients, caregivers and team members in the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center through the generosity of our donors,” said Alyssa Stanek, Trinity Foundation Director. “We have helped pay for rent, utilities and car payments due to patients not being able to work during their treatment.

“We assist with gas and hotels to ensure patients to their doctor appointments. There are times we provide assistance with medications and garments not covered by insurance.”

Stanek said they also pay for support group fees/expenses, and have been able to fund various pieces of equipment and education opportunities in the Cancer Center over the years, as well as much more.

“We are truly blessed by the generous support we received from our community and every gift makes such a meaningful impact,” she added.

The Strikeout Cancer game is also personal for the Dodger softball team. Bre Drees, the high school athletic trainer who works closely with the softball team all year, battled breast cancer last year and relied on the help and support of the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center while she was going through treatment and recovery.

“Last year I was in the middle of treatment during the Strikeout Cancer game and (FDSH head coach) Andi (Adams) approached me about throwing out the first pitch. I was overwhelmed by the support of both the softball and baseball teams showing up for that event and all of the support I’ve received for the past year,” Drees said. “When Andi told me the date of the event this year. I looked at my calendar and knew I should be finishing my final treatment the following week, so I wanted to make it an even bigger event.

“Andi and I have frequently had discussions about my treatments, therapies, and surgeries. We realized that a lot of people don’t recognize everything that goes into cancer treatment — especially the extra costs associated with cancer treatment.”

Drees said Adams was immediately supportive of the idea to collect donations and give back to the local cancer center for those patients receiving treatment in Fort Dodge, so they decided to get the Pride Softball organization involved.

“My 8U softball team are anthem buddies that night, and will be wearing their pink jerseys with the Dodgers and helping to collect donations,” Drees said. “It’s going to be a really special event to bring awareness, encourage routine exams, and hopefully, raise some money to support patients right here in Fort Dodge.”

Anyone who can’t attend the game but would like to support the Cancer Center can send donations to the Pride softball program through Venmo. Their user ID there is @FDGFApride.