Brandon was diagnosed with Leukemia on his first birthday. After a lifetime of extensive treatment, the now 13-year old has been cancer free for two years; but his body still suffers from the degradation that comes with battling this disease. Subsequently, Brandon never had the time or opportunity to learn to hunt like other kids until Shad Loch and his local Green Bay charity came into the picture.
"Brandon is a great example of what we do here at Take 'Em Outdoors," organization President Loch recently said. "Here's a kid who wants to learn how to hunt, has never been, and gets to go out and land a giant tom his first time out."
"It was really a special day," he continued. "Those times are what make this organization so truly rewarding."
Take 'Em Outdoors began in 2006 after Loch lost of a good friend and hunting compatriot to cancer. He dedicated himself to helping people stricken with illness and injury find a way to enjoy the great outdoors. It's been a very rewarding experience and it's only getting bigger.
"We've been very fortunate in that so many people volunteer their time and equipment to such a great cause," Loch states. "We have three big events a year and they wouldn't be possible without the help of so many great sportsmen and the donations of so many caring people."
Loch estimates that Take 'Em Outdoors has provided hunting and fishing trips to children with severe or terminal illnesses and combat wounded veterans hundreds of times over the last six years. Take 'Em Outdoors currently hosts three events a year: a spring turkey hunt, a June walleye event and an October pheasant hunt. The organization supplies all of the equipment, land and food for the hunters and family. If you would like to know more, volunteer your time or get involved with Take 'Em Outdoors, you can contact Loch through their website at www.takeemoutdoors.org.