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When Kent Deemter was diagnosed with cancer as a young husband and father, his world was turned upside down. That same day, one random thought made him laugh: What if his friends and family could go bald digitally, no clippers required? His sister-in-law heard about the idea and secretly made it happen, sending him a new “digitally bald” photo of a loved one before each chemo appointment. It was hilarious, uplifting, and a powerful reminder that his community was with him every step of the way.

That experience inspired Kent to create ChemoCheer, a company dedicated to bringing joy and support to people fighting cancer through digital fun, gifts, and community connection. He believes no one should have to walk this journey alone and wants others to feel surrounded by laughter, love, and encouragement in their fight.

Kent is grateful for the American Cancer Society’s resources during his own cancer journey and feels most connected to ACS’s work in community building and survivor events.

“Cancer showed me the importance of community, and ChemoCheer is my way of helping others experience that same sense of support,” he said.

Kent lives in Hudsonville with his wife and high school sweetheart Annie, and their five children, ages 10 to 20. As a family, they enjoy boating and exploring the beautiful lakes that make Michigan home.

From this issue

/Kathleen%20Vogelsang,%20CFA:%202026%20Brilliant%20Woman%20of%20the%20Year
Kathleen B. Vogelsang, CFA, is a true believer in remembering where you come from. A first-generation college graduate and non-traditional student, she earned her MBA and CFA designation while raising three children and working full-time. “I started out from very humble beginnings, nothing came easy,” Vogelsang said. “I was the first one in my family to go to college and paid my own way through, starting with community college. I don't ever want to lose sight of who I am; I'm still just humble little me—no matter how many awards I get. [What matters] is who I am … someone who’s trying to do the right thing and be a good person.”
/Legacy%20of%20Brilliance:%20Shelley%20Irwin
Shelley Irwin is the Host and Producer for The Shelley Irwin Show, a newsmagazine talk-show on the local NPR WGVU affiliate Monday through Friday. She also hosts several public affairs TV programs and is award-winning in her profession and beyond. Irwin also gives generously of her time, volunteering with various community organizations. In addition, she’s represented the U.S. in Long Distance Triathlon and Duathlon World Championships. Irwin is the fourth recipient of the West Michigan Woman Legacy of Brilliance Award, an honor created as part of the annual Brilliance Awards, which recognizes a woman who for years has given of herself, personally and professionally, to better the lives of those around her. We caught up with Irwin to get her perspective on her work and what advice she has for others.
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/Connection%20and%20Community:%20Elevate%20Your%20Overall%20Wellness%20with%20Group%20Fitness
Working out isn’t always some people’s idea of “fun.” For some, working out alone at home or at the gym can feel isolating, whether it’s lack of a routine, accountability, consistency, motivation, confidence, or otherwise. However, for some, working out in a group setting is like hitting a power up button in a video game. You’ve got someone knowledgeable leading you in the right direction, and a community cheering you on as you grow beyond your comfort zone—together! Both mentally and physically, it can be a true game changer.