About Us
Welcome to SabesWings: Providing Vital Financial Support for Cancer Patients
SabesWings is on a mission to offer financial relief to cancer patients facing the crushing burden of Medical Financial Toxicity (MFT). With the healthcare landscape evolving and alternative treatments emerging, MFT has become an increasingly prevalent challenge, leaving patients grappling with difficult choices between their medical needs and daily expenses.
Founded by Bret and Kandace Saberhagen, SabesWings emerged from their personal journey. Their firsthand experience illuminated the harsh reality of patients struggling with depleted finances, insurance gaps, and the threat of bankruptcy—all while fighting for their lives. Determined to make a difference, Bret and Kandace established SabesWings as a beacon of hope for those in need.
At SabesWings, we understand the urgency of financial assistance for cancer patients. Through extensive research and a deep understanding of the challenges at hand, we provide a lifeline for individuals and families navigating the complexities of cancer treatment. Our organization serves as a vital resource, offering support to keep families afloat during their darkest days.
Join us in our mission to alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment. Together, we can ensure that no patient has to sacrifice their well-being due to financial hardship. Explore our website to learn more about our initiatives, how you can get involved, and the impact we're making in the lives of those affected by cancer.
SabesWings was founded with an unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness while providing hope and support to those who need it most. The organization was established to alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses that often force patients to choose between treatment and their daily necessities. At SabesWings, we believe that no individual should have to face such a dilemma.
Leading The Team
Bret and Kandace Saberhagen faced a challenging situation during Kandace's treatment for breast cancer. Despite the availability of several therapies that had shown promising results with supporting data, they came at a significant cost, and their insurance did not cover the experimental drugs or therapies. Although many of these therapies have been widely used globally and have extensive supporting data, the factors and reasons behind why certain medical procedures, treatments, and drugs with substantial supporting data are not covered by insurance remain unknown. This prompted the Saberhagens to investigate other damaging effects of medical debt, and their discoveries are the reason they decided to provide aid to those in similar struggles.
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President and FounderBret Saberhagen’s notable Major League Baseball career spanned 18 years. He was selected in the 19th round by the Kansas City Royals, coming straight out of high school. Bret made his Major League debut at 19 years old. In his 2nd year in the league, Bret went 20-6 to lead the Royals to its 1st World Series championship in 1985, where he was named MVP of the series. Additionally, he was awarded the first of his two Cy Young Awards. After 8 years with the Royals, Bret was traded to the New York Mets. In 1994 while playing for the Mets, he had a 14-4 record with a 2.74 ERA, striking out 143 batters while walking only 13 and an incredible 11.00 K/BB, (breaking Jim Whitney's record). He went on to play for the Colorado Rockies and the Boston Red Sox. Bret has also been awarded a Gold Glove, achieved a no-hitter, has been inducted into the Royals Hall of Fame, is a 3 time All-Star and has been awarded Come Back Player of the Year two times.
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Co-FounderAs the co-founder of SabesWings, a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to cancer patients who face medical financial toxicity, we have been leading the fundraising, team building, and strategic planning efforts for the past four years. With our extensive experience in nonprofit management and fundraising, we have successfully secured multiple grants, donations, and partnerships to support our mission and vision.
Our passion for helping cancer patients stems from our personal journey as a survivor and a caregiver. We know firsthand the challenges and burdens that come with a diagnosis, and the lack of resources and opportunities available for those who cannot afford their treatment. That is why we founded SabesWings, to be the voice, the hand, and the support for those in need. We are proud of the impact we have made so far, and we are committed to expanding our reach and services to more patients and communities.
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Candace Oestreich
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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Brenda DeShon
PROJECT MANAGER
Board Members
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Chad Rava
OWNER OF RAVA WINES
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Lauren Rava
CO-OWNER OF RAVA WINES
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Jay Johnson
RNDC PRESIDENT
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Aidan Stolz
RALLY PROGRAM VP
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Dalton Saberhagen
REAL ESTATE
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Pati Coehlo
CRIU HOSPITALITY OWNER
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Chef Roshn
FOOD NETWORK CELEBRITY CHEF
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Ryker Young
PRINCIPAL AND VISIONARY OF LONEOAK VENTURES
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Kim Peire
SOCIAL MEDIA CURATOR
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Tully Kennedy
LEAD BASSIST PLAYER - JASON ALDEAN BAND
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Doug and Grazia Anson
SPONSORSHIP ENGAGEMENT
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Bryan and Christine Rogers
SPONSORSHIP ENGAGEMENT
Celebrity Advisory Committee
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Mike Eruzione
Hockey Legacy:
Mike Eruzione's journey in hockey began with dedication, skill, and an unyielding passion for the game. As captain of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, his leadership led to the "Miracle on Ice" victory over the Soviet Union, a historic moment in sports history that captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
Philanthropic Pursuits:
Beyond the rink, Eruzione's commitment to making a difference extends to philanthropy. He dedicates himself to various causes, including youth sports development, education, and healthcare. Notably, his advocacy for cancer patients and families has provided crucial support, ensuring access to care without financial strain.
Excitement and Dedication:
Joining forces with Bret and Kandace Saberhagen, Eruzione elevates his passion for philanthropy. Together, they aim to alleviate medical financial toxicity for cancer patients through their collaboration on the SabesWings Nonprofit Celebrity Advisory Committee. Eruzione's enthusiasm and dedication underscore a shared vision of creating positive change, embodying the values of teamwork, resilience, and compassion.
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Chili Davis
Baseball Journey:
Chili Davis, born on January 17, 1960, in Kingston, Jamaica, rose to prominence as a versatile outfielder and designated hitter during his illustrious 19-year career in Major League Baseball. He showcased his talent with esteemed franchises such as the San Francisco Giants, California Angels, Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, and New York Yankees, leaving an indelible mark on each team.
Support for SabesWings:
For the past three years, Davis has been an ardent supporter of SabesWings, a nonprofit founded by his close friend Bret Saberhagen and his wife, Kandace. Through their collective efforts, they've aimed to alleviate medical financial toxicity for cancer patients and their families, exemplifying their commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those battling the disease.
Friendship with Bret and Philanthropic Pursuits:
Davis's friendship with Bret Saberhagen extends beyond the diamond, united by their shared passion for giving back. Together, they've leveraged their influence and resources to support SabesWings initiatives, reflecting Davis's dedication to making a positive impact in the world, one act of kindness at a time.
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Mark Rypien
Advocate and Champion
Mark Rypien, renowned NFL quarterback, has transitioned from the spotlight of the gridiron to become a passionate advocate for cancer patients and their families. His journey to philanthropy was profoundly influenced by personal tragedy—the heartbreaking loss of his young son to cancer at the tender age of 3. In response to this devastating experience, Rypien founded his own nonprofit organization dedicated to pediatric cancer research and providing support to families navigating the challenges of the illness.
Now, Rypien brings his dedication and personal insight to the SabesWings Celebrity Advisory Committee. Inspired by the mission of SabesWings to alleviate medical financial toxicity for cancer patients, Rypien eagerly lends his voice and support to their cause. Collaborating with fellow advocates Bret and Kandace Saberhagen, he seeks to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by cancer, ensuring that no family faces the journey alone.
Driven by empathy, compassion, and a commitment to creating positive change, Rypien embodies the spirit of resilience and hope. His partnership with SabesWings reflects his deeply-held belief in the power of community and collective action to overcome adversity and make a difference in the world. Together, they stand united in their mission to provide crucial support and resources to individuals and families affected by cancer, honoring the memory of Rypien's son and all those impacted by the disease.
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Ted Lily
From the Mound to Advocacy
Ted Lilly, esteemed former MLB pitcher, transitions his passion for philanthropy and advocacy to the SabesWings Celebrity Advisory Committee. With a career marked by precision and dedication, Lilly's commitment to making a difference extends beyond the baseball diamond.
Inspired by personal experiences and a desire to give back, Lilly eagerly lends his support to SabesWings' mission of alleviating medical financial toxicity for cancer patients and their families. Collaborating with fellow advocates Bret and Kandace Saberhagen, he brings a wealth of insight and compassion to the cause.
Driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of community and collective action, Lilly stands ready to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer. With unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to creating positive change, he joins forces with SabesWings in their noble mission to empower individuals and families affected by cancer on their journey to healing and recovery.