Roger Maris lived a life rich in moments that mattered — from record-breaking achievements on baseball’s biggest stage to quiet moments as a husband, father and community organizer.
While Roger passed away from cancer in 1985, those moments continue to echo in his hometown of Fargo, North Dakota, where each year the community comes together during Roger Maris All-Star Week to support the award-winning cancer center named in his honor.
This week, Roger Maris All-Star events, including the Roger Maris Gala, reached new heights, raising more than $1 million for patients and families at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center and to support the Peltier Lodge, our new center for patient lodging.
Nearing the Finish Line
Support from Roger Maris All-Star Week events brought fundraising efforts for the construction of the Peltier Lodge, the new center for patient lodging, closer to the finish line.
Made possible thanks to a lead gift from philanthropist Norma Peltier, the Peltier Lodge will extend the mission of Roger Maris beyond the walls of the cancer center, providing a home away from home for patients and their families during treatment and throughout periods of outpatient care and monitoring.
- A convenient location close to the Roger Maris campus will offer easy access to appointments, treatments and expert caregivers who are on-site 24/7
- Affordable pricing will ease financial burdens for patients and families. The Peltier Lodge is a more cost-friendly option compared to hotels or short-term rentals.
- A peaceful environment that features private rooms for patients and families, common areas for gathering and outdoor spaces for reflection, the Peltier Lodge will blend compassion, connection and clinical care to foster better outcomes for patients.
For Moments That Matter
Last year, more than 15,000 patients counted on the Roger Maris Cancer Center. Of those, nearly half traveled more than 60 miles for care and treatment.
“Cancer care is about more than treatment, it’s about protecting the moments that matter — the everyday moments, the milestones and everything in between,” said Tiffany Lawrence, president and CEO for Sanford Fargo. “But when care requires traveling far from home, those moments can slip away. Time with family shortens. Comfort fades. The burden grows heavier.”
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we can lighten that burden. The Peltier Lodge will be a place of rest, connection and hope — helping patients hold on to what matters most and create more moments that matter.”
Amy Hinkemeyer serves as the vice president for the Sanford Health Foundation in Fargo. She said Roger Maris All-Star Week captures the generous spirit of the Fargo region and stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of care Roger Maris inspired.
“There’s something really special about a community that comes together and rallies for those in need. Since its doors opened in 1990, people across our area have continued to support the Roger Maris Cancer Center and this week, that generosity truly did reach new heights,” she said. “Every investment in our mission helps Roger’s legacy of care expand in new and meaningful ways. We are beyond grateful.”
Give for Comfort
If you’re inspired by this story, Give for Good today. 100% of your gift will support the Peltier Lodge, bringing hope and strength to cancer patients and their families.