Since Linda’s Fund was established in 2008, more than $510,000 has been raised to help area residents battling breast cancer, and this year, several area businesses and organizations have come out in force to raise funds for McDonough District Hospital’s philanthropic program.
“Thank you to our community for raising awareness and additional funds for Linda’s Fund during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The need exists year-round, but the increased awareness in October helps spread the word throughout the region so that when someone needs assistance, they know where to turn. We are grateful to be part of a community that rallies together to support such important causes,” Said Brittany Moore, MDH Foundation Director.
To date in October 2026, more than $17,000 has been raised for Linda’s Fund.
Slup’s Bar in Blandinsville raised a record $13,000 through their annual “Bags for Boobs” event Sept. 19, while Macomb Country Club’s Golf for the “Girls” event raised over $2,700.
Macomb High School Girls Bomber Volleyball recently raised just over $1,000 at their Dig Pink Night, and Shaw Creek Golf Course raised funds through their Wine & Nine.
About Linda's Fund Brad Bainter, who was born and raised in Sciota, and his wife, Amy Spelman, started “Linda’s Fund” at McDonough District Hospital 18 years ago in honor of Bainter’s mother, Linda (Ren) Bainter, who passed away after her second battle with breast cancer on April 11, 1996. That day was also Brad’s 39th birthday.
Along with her son, Linda left behind her husband and Brad’s younger sister, Penny.
“Linda’s Fund” was established through the MDH Foundation to support women and their families fighting breast cancer. Typically, this support includes direct financial assistance to pay medical bills not covered by insurance; special adaptive clothing; personal care items; gas money and the like.
Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer of 1982. She underwent a single mastectomy and removal of many lymph nodes, followed by chemotherapy. After her surgery, she became active in supporting other women with breast cancer, offering encouragement through personal visits, cards, notes, and prayers.
She remained cancer-free for 12 years. In the fall of 1994, she was diagnosed with breast cancer again.
Two months earlier, her annual medical examination had shown her to be cancer- free. Within months, the cancer spread to her liver. In April 1995, she was told she had 12 months or less to live. One year later, she passed away at the age of 57.
Linda’s Fund recipients must receive healthcare services from MDH, which includes all of McDonough County and portions of Adams, Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, Schuyler and Warren counties. Awards range from $500 up to $1,500, and applicants may reapply after three months.
Applications are available at mdh.org/lindasfund, or by calling the MDH Foundation office at (309) 836-1757. Donations may also be made by contacting the MDH Foundation or making a gift online at mdh.org/get-involved/ make-a-gift.
Thank you to Golf for the Girls for raising $2,723 for Linda’s Fund at MDH! We are grateful for the continued support of the MCC Women’s Association and their efforts to support local women battling breast cancer.
Bomber Volleyball presented a check for $1,033 to the MDH Foundation for Brest cancer. The money was raised at the Dig Pink Night.
