Our Story
Raising a Glass, Restoring Hope
What began as a single evening of fundraising has evolved into a cornerstone of the Wichita community’s fight against cancer. Now in its 10th year, Wine About Cancer is more than just an event—it is a movement dedicated to supporting patients, celebrating survivors, and ensuring that no family in our community walks their journey alone.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple: to transform an evening of community and fine wine into tangible support for those facing a cancer diagnosis. We bridge the gap between national research and local, hands-on recovery, ensuring that funds raised here stay here to impact lives in the Wichita area.
The Today Foundation: Our Newest Chapter
In the Fall of 2025, the Wine About Cancer team reached a major milestone with the official 501(c)(3) incorporation of The Today Foundation. While Wine About Cancer remains our flagship event, The Today Foundation was created to provide direct, immediate support to families in the Wichita area. We recognized a need for a local initiative that could pivot quickly to help neighbors with the unique burdens a cancer diagnosis brings—from financial hurdles to specialized opportunities for connection and care.
Note to Donors: The Today Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All cash and in-kind donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Your contributions directly fund our local grants and community outreach programs.
Who We Support
We believe in a “holistic” approach to the fight against cancer. That is why Wine About Cancer proudly supports three vital pillars:
1. The Today Foundation
Our own local initiative focused on providing direct support and resources to Wichita families navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.
2. Survivor 2.0
A program of Club Hope Fitness, Survivor 2.0 is provided free of cost to survivors of all ages. It helps them gain physical strength, find emotional hope, and move forward after a diagnosis. This program held a special place in the heart of Deanna Leinen, whose legacy continues to inspire our work today.
3. Blood Cancer United (Mid-America Chapter)
We continue our long-standing commitment to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society), supporting their mission to research treatments and advocate for patients and their families.
Our History: From a Campaign to a Legacy
Wine About Cancer was born in 2016 as a fundraiser for Tori Deatherage’s Woman of the Year campaign for LLS. Thanks to the early and steadfast support of presenting sponsors Rick and Monica Nutt, the event returned in 2017 and has grown every year since.
In 2021, the mission became even more personal. After the passing of Tori’s mother, Deanna, from metastasized breast cancer, the team redoubled their efforts to support local survivors through Survivor 2.0—the very program that gave Deanna strength during her fight.
Today, we honor those we have lost and celebrate those still fighting by coming together for an evening of purpose.
Get Involved
Whether you are interested in a corporate sponsorship, an in-kind donation for our silent auction, or a cash contribution to The Today Foundation, your generosity changes lives.
Donate: Support our 501(c)(3) mission directly.
In-Kind Giving: Help us elevate our event through auction items, wine, or services.
Attend: Join us for Wine About Cancer and see the impact firsthand.
