Duck Derby’s Record-Breaking Success

The third annual Duck Derby was a monumental success! Although it was an incredibly hot day in Nashville, the park experienced record-breaking crowds. Prior to the race we sold 1,200 ducks and during the race, we sold another 300 ducks! Our grand total of 1,500 ducks sold was the biggest number to date. The event raised enough to supply 300 children with Chemo Ducks. 

Riley Bria was an incredible addition to this year’s event. He played songs from his upcoming album and “wowed” the crowd with his talent.

The six-foot rubber duck was also a huge hit along with visits from the Chemo Duck mascot and Freckles the Frog. The children were thrilled to say the least!

We were honored to partner with Nashville Shores on this fun family event. We are also extremely grateful for our growing number of sponsors including Jackson National Life Insurance, B.L. Harbert, StoneTree Mulch Gravel and More, Williamson Pediatric Dentistry, AMP&M Specialties, Crain Construction, Doster Construction and Nashville Publicity Group.

Check out our two Facebook albums for some amazing pictures!

Chemo Duck Receives Grant

Gabe’s Chemo Duck Program recently received its first grant from the Jackson National Community Fund (JNCF). The award will allow the program to complete the second installment of the Chemo Duck Cartoon.

“We are extremely grateful that Jackson Insurances sees the value in educating children with cancer,” said Lu Sipos. “We look forward to finding new ways to become more engaged with Jackson Insurance and their volunteer program.”

Jackson National Life Insurance, founded in 1961, is one of the nation’s largest insurance companies. Through the JNCF, Jackson and its employees invest in the communities in which they live.

With corporate headquarters in Lansing, Michigan, Jackson also has offices in Denver, Chicago and Nashville.

According to Corinne Bergeron, corporate social responsibility manger for Jackson Insurance in Nashville, the company’s donations and sponsorships are directed to organizations, programs and events dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and the elderly.

“The Chemo Duck program was one of 20 applications our executive committee reviewed,” said Bergeron. “With a focus of helping children confronting a disease like cancer, any role our company could play to support them was the main driver in awarding the grant.

“It was wonderful to meet Gabe and his family. He is truly an outstanding spokesperson for the program.”

The $5,000 grant is one example of how Jackson Insurance is working to participate in projects and initiatives that strengthen the communities in which they work and serve, said Bergeron.

Sipos said she is looking forward to other ways to partner with the company in hopes of bringing Chemo Ducks to patients in the areas the insurance company has a presence.