A total of $30,521 was raised for area diabetes patients through the sixth annual Because of Brandon event held April 21 in Ironton. The fund raiser was in memory of Brandon Houge who unexpectedly passed away from complications from diabetes in 2015.

All proceeds from the event benefit Brandon’s Wallet which helps area Type 1 diabetes patients with travel costs for treatment, scholarships to Camp Needlepoint for youth, and to those who may need assistance with insulin and glucose testing supplies.

Two charity rides are also being planned to support Because of Brandon. The Iron Range Motorcycle Club’s Sugar Ride on Saturday, May 20, will benefit Because of Brandon. Registration starts at 11 a.m. at the Harbor Inn in Garrison, kick stands up at noon. The 135-mile ride will have stops in Hill City and Emily and end in Deerwood. The Cuyuna Iron Range Riders ATV Club is planning its annual Ride for Brandon for Saturday, July 22. The ride begins at 9 a.m. at the Miller Black Bear Coles Lake Cabin Trailhead area. Details available at CuyunaIronRangeRiders.com.

Donations to Because of Brandon are continuing to be accepted at brandon2023.givesmart.com. For more information about Because of Brandon, contact Jennifer Podsiadly at Jennifer.Podsiadly@cuyunamed.org or 218-545-4455.

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