A Cincinnati brewery is turning its taps into a lifeline this weekend for a Clermont County first responder fighting an aggressive blood cancer. Dead Low Brewing on Kellogg Avenue is hosting a benefit Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. for Danielle Muelen, who serves in Williamsburg Township's emergency services, along with support for Stonelick Township's fire department.
Muelen has been battling an aggressive form of blood cancer and is expected to undergo a stem cell transplant, according to WKRC. The outlet also identifies her as Danielle Muelen, though other reports refer to her as Danielle Vonder Meulen. WCPO describes her as a paramedic and firefighter with both the Stonelick Township and Williamsburg Township Fire Departments.
Per WLWT, she was scheduled to begin chemotherapy in January, followed by a stem cell transplant and at least six months of recovery. WKRC reports she needs several months to recover.
SITREP Foundation Organizing Sunday's Fundraiser
The SITREP Foundation is putting on Sunday's benefit, with organizers saying donations will hopefully ease some of the financial burden Muelen faces during treatment. The event will feature raffle baskets, a split-the-pot drawing and a $1 donation for every seltzer sold at the brewery.
Danny Ruck of the foundation said the goal is straightforward: take some of the financial pressure off Muelen while she focuses on getting better. “Hopefully, we'll be able to raise a good chunk of money for her. So that way, it's a big burden that she doesn't have to worry about later on,” Ruck said.
Helicopter Rides Add to the Fundraising Push
Cincinnati Helicopters is pitching in too, offering fall-color flights with proceeds going directly toward Muelen's treatment and recovery. The flights give supporters a scenic way to contribute beyond the raffles and drink sales happening inside the brewery.
Sunday's gathering follows other fundraising efforts on Muelen's behalf. The same WCPO report notes a quarter auction was held at the firehouse on Oct. 14 to help raise funds for her, part of a broader community push that has grown as word of her diagnosis spread through Clermont County's first-responder community.
