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Estevan teen raises thousands to fight cancer

Kaleb Bechtold might be young, but he found a successful way to support those who are fighting cancer. Bechtold, a Grade 12 student at the Estevan Comprehensive School, works as a server at Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual in Estevan.
Kaleb Bechtold
Kaleb Bechtold donated his tips from his Friday shifts in October at Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual to the Canadian Cancer Society. Photo submitted

Kaleb Bechtold might be young, but he found a successful way to support those who are fighting cancer.  

Bechtold, a Grade 12 student at the Estevan Comprehensive School, works as a server at Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual in Estevan. He decided to donate the tips from his Friday shifts in October to the Canadian Cancer Society, and wound up raising $2,125. 

It means he received more than $500 in tips each Friday night, which is a lot more than he would normally receive.  

“My section was really busy,” said Bechtold. “Lots of people asked to have me as their server.”  

When he embarked on the benefit, he hoped to raise $2,000. 

“Estevan is just such a giving community and honestly, I wasn’t really surprised (that I raised so much), because I’ve been part of the Mr. Mikes fundraisers before, and they always have a pretty awesome turnout,” said Bechtold.  

Everyone at the restaurant was supportive of the idea as well, and applauded him for taking the initiative.  

Bechtold decided to try the fundraiser after seeing how a bartender in Moose Jaw and another in Saskatoon did something similar to support the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. 

“My grandma is fighting cancer right now, so I figured the Canadian Cancer Society would be an awesome way to help the cause,” said Bechtold.  

He said he would consider doing a similar fundraiser in the future. It was a great experience for him, and he was delighted to see the kindness and generosity of the people, especially during these tough times.