Learn how to help a WF mom fighting a brain tumor and other ways to Lend A Hand Up

The arrival of a new child should be a time of immense joy, but for Mary Bauer of West Fargo, the joy is tempered by a daunting medical challenge. Just months after welcoming her third child in May 2026, she received a devastating diagnosis: grade 2 gliomatosis cerebri, IDH-mutant astrocytoma. This news, alongside other local families facing hardship, is being addressed through the Lend A Hand Up organization, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting those experiencing health crises and traumatic events. The organization is currently raising funds to assist the Bauer family and several others in the Fargo-Moorhead area, highlighting the ongoing need for community support during times of adversity.

Local Families Facing Hardship

Mary Bauer's diagnosis came after she initially attributed persistent headaches to postpartum hypertension. Further testing revealed the presence of a brain tumor, a condition that requires immediate and extensive medical intervention. Beyond the Bauer family, Lend A Hand Up is supporting several other local families facing significant challenges. Keegan Dahl of Glyndon sustained serious injuries to his stomach, left leg, and left arm this past spring, requiring extensive surgeries and ongoing physical therapy to regain function in his hand and recover from a broken ankle. Dana Coppin of Fargo, tragically passed away on October 29th at the age of 34 after developing pneumonia and sepsis following what seemed like flu-like symptoms. She leaves behind her husband, Lucas, and their two young sons, Eli (5) and Theo (3), who now face the profound loss of their mother and the challenges of single parenthood.

The financial burden associated with these health crises is substantial, encompassing medical bills, funeral expenses, and the everyday costs of living. For the Coppin family, Lucas now faces the immense responsibility of raising two young children while navigating his own recovery from pneumonia. The support provided by Lend A Hand Up aims to alleviate some of this stress, allowing families to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives. Tyler Hasse, a Moorhead resident, has recently been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Miles Orth, a West Fargo police detective, is battling stage IV prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones. These cases underscore the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of community support networks for families facing overwhelming circumstances. Dakota Medical Foundation serves as the parent organization for Lend A Hand Up.

Community Response

The outpouring of support for these families is a testament to the strong sense of community that defines the Fargo-Moorhead area. Lucas Coppin, despite his own hospitalization, remained by his wife’s side until her passing, demonstrating a profound commitment to his family. The upcoming fundraising events are designed to further amplify this community response, providing tangible assistance to those in need. The organization does not collect a fee from donations made to Lend A Hand Up recipients, ensuring that all contributions directly benefit the families they serve. West Fargo Fire Department often responds to emergencies involving these families.

Upcoming Fundraising Events

Several events are planned to raise funds for the families supported by Lend A Hand Up. A benefit for Tyler Hasse will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Reed Township Hall in West Fargo, featuring a taco-in-a-bag meal, live music, and a silent auction. A spaghetti feed fundraiser for Miles Orth is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Horace Senior Center, also including a silent auction and raffle to support the Orth family. These events offer opportunities for community members to contribute directly to the well-being of their neighbors facing difficult circumstances. Reed Township is a vital part of the West Fargo community.

How Lend A Hand Up Helps

Lend A Hand Up is a 501c3 nonprofit subsidiary of Dakota Medical Foundation supporting area families experiencing hardship due to a health issue, recent loss of life, or traumatic event. Funds raised by Lend A Hand Up help families who reside within the program’s service area to include all counties in North Dakota and select counties in northwestern Minnesota to include Clay, Becker, Otter Tail, Wilkin, Wadena, Hubbard, Norman, Mahnomen, Clearwater, Polk, Red Lake, and Pennington. Gifts raised through Lend A Hand Up’s giving site increase in value by 20% due to generous Boost sponsors. To start a Lend A Hand Up fundraiser or support one, go to www.lendahandup.org or call 701-356-2661. The organization's address is 4321 20 Ave S, Fargo, N.D., 58103.

Getting Involved and Supporting Families

Lend A Hand Up continues to seek nominations and support for families facing hardship. The organization’s website, LendAHandUp.org, provides information on how to start a fundraiser or contribute to existing campaigns. With generous Boost sponsors, gifts raised through the giving site increase in value by 20%, maximizing the impact of each donation. Individuals interested in starting a fundraiser or seeking assistance can contact Lend A Hand Up directly at 701-356-2661. City of Fargo-Moorhead recognizes the importance of these community supports.

Tommy's Perspective

The stories emerging from Lend A Hand Up are a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community. Seeing families like the Bauers and Coppins face such devastating circumstances highlights the need for strong support systems—not just from organizations like Lend A Hand Up, but from neighbors, friends, and faith communities as well. The commitment of Lucas Coppin to his sons, even amidst his own grief and illness, speaks to the enduring power of parental love and the importance of stable, loving homes for children. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, but these stories should prompt us to consider how we can better support those around us who are struggling. The financial strain on these families is immense, but the emotional and spiritual toll is often even greater. We must remember that a thriving community isn’t built on material wealth alone; it’s built on compassion, generosity, and a willingness to lend a hand to those in need. The challenges facing families today are complex, and require a multifaceted approach that addresses not only financial needs but also the emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals and families. Fargo Park District provides a place for families to gather and support each other.

Resources and Contact Information

For those seeking to learn more or contribute to Lend A Hand Up, several resources are available. The organization’s website, LendAHandUp.org, provides detailed information about the program and its recipients. Direct donations can be made through the website, with a 20% matching boost from generous sponsors. Individuals interested in starting a fundraiser or seeking assistance can contact Lend A Hand Up directly at 701-356-2661. The Dakota Medical Foundation, which supports Lend A Hand Up, can be found at Dakota Medical Foundation.

The stories of Mary Bauer, Keegan Dahl, Dana Coppin, Tyler Hasse, and Miles Orth serve as a powerful call to action for the Fargo-Moorhead community. By supporting Lend A Hand Up and participating in fundraising events, residents can make a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors facing extraordinary challenges. The strength of our community lies in our ability to come together and provide support during times of need, reaffirming the values of compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to one another.

The ongoing efforts of Lend A Hand Up demonstrate the enduring power of community and the importance of supporting those facing adversity. As these families navigate their individual challenges, the collective response from the Fargo-Moorhead area serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It is a reminder that even in the face of hardship, there is always reason to believe in the kindness and generosity of others.