Last weekend, breast cancer survivor and South Jersey professional ranch sorter Michelle Donio hosted her annual “Sort for Support” rodeo and ranch sorting fundraiser at Double P Ranch in Bridgeton, N.J., raising nearly $20,000 for patients at Jefferson Health’s Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center (SKCCC) where Donio was treated. “Sort for Support”, which features teams of riders on horseback separating specific numbered cattle from a herd and driving them into an adjacent pen, has now generated nearly $90,000 over six years.
“Michelle has been an extraordinary advocate for our patients, and we are incredibly grateful for her continued generosity and support,” said Dr. Tamara LaCouture, Chief of Cancer Services, Jefferson Health New Jersey’s Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center and a member of Donio’s care team. “Sort for Support reflects her compassion, resilience, and dedication, and the funds raised will make a meaningful difference for patients and families receiving cancer care.”
Donio has been riding horses since age 12 and has earned ranch sorting championships across the country. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, she was unsure whether she would see her youngest granddaughter born. Thanks to the care she received at SKCCC and her determination, Donio not only witnessed that milestone but has since taught her granddaughter to ride and now proudly watches several of her granddaughters compete in sorting events.
Donio credits the support of her family, friends, and the Ranch Sorting Team Penning Association (RSTPA) with the success of “Sort for Support” allowing this annual, sanctioned competition on the Ranch Sorting Team Penning Association (RSTPA) national circuit to make meaningful contributions to Jefferson Health’s Patient Assistance Fund, which helps cancer patients with essential needs including utility bills, wigs, and other supportive services.
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