Indiana Beef Community Raises Over ,000 for Riley Hospital in ‘Ringside for Riley’ Fundraiser

Indiana Beef Community Raises Over $20,000 for Riley Hospital in ‘Ringside for Riley’ Fundraiser

January 27, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

A unique fundraising event, “Ringside for Riley,” has rapidly become a significant source of support for Riley Hospital for Children in Indiana. Driven by the inspiring story of young patients, the event unites the state’s beef cattle community in a display of generosity and friendly competition.

A Community Rallies for Pediatric Care

The 2nd Annual Ringside for Riley adult showmanship fundraiser, held on December 5, 2025, during the Hoosier Beef Congress, raised over $20,000 for Riley Hospital for Children. This brings the total raised over the two years to more than $32,000. The event featured over 60 participants competing in adult showmanship, judged in categories of Top Overall Showman and Most Entertaining Showman.

The Inspiration Behind the Event

The fundraiser was conceived by 12-year-old Cadley Boocher of Alexandria, Indiana. Born with a rare, one-in-a-million heart defect, Cadley has received ongoing care at Riley Hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries and hospital stays. “Without the doctors at Riley, I wouldn’t be here today,” Cadley stated, expressing her desire to give back to the hospital that has supported her.

Did You Know? Riley Hospital for Children is Indiana’s largest pediatric system, with over 50 locations statewide and is ranked among the top hospitals in the nation by US News & World Report.

This year’s judging panel included 19-year-old Andon Zehring, a Riley patient himself. Andon was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumor at seven months old and underwent an 18-hour brain surgery, followed by chemotherapy, radiation, a stem cell transplant, and extensive therapies. He has been cancer-free for eight years thanks to the care he received at Riley.

Impact and Future Possibilities

Brian Shuter, Executive Vice-President of the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, highlighted the overwhelming support from the industry. He noted that the initial goal was surpassed, and the IBCA is proud to help bring Cadley’s vision to life. Riley Hospital serves children from nearly all Indiana counties and surrounding states, with patients making over 300,000 visits annually.

Expert Insight: The success of Ringside for Riley demonstrates the powerful impact of patient-driven fundraising initiatives and the willingness of communities to support vital healthcare services for children. This model could potentially be replicated in other regions and industries, fostering a culture of giving back.

The Hoosier Beef Congress, where the event is held, is a major event in the Midwest cattle industry, attracting thousands of participants and spectators each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who created Ringside for Riley?

Ringside for Riley was created by 12-year-old Cadley Boocher, a patient at Riley Children’s Health, as a way to give back to the hospital.

How much money has been raised through Ringside for Riley?

Over two years, Ringside for Riley has raised more than $32,000 for Riley Hospital for Children.

What type of event is Ringside for Riley?

Ringside for Riley is an adult showmanship competition held during the Hoosier Beef Congress, uniting the Indiana beef cattle community to support Riley Hospital for Children.

As the event continues to grow, it could potentially attract even more participants and sponsors, further increasing its impact on the lives of children receiving care at Riley Hospital. Continued community engagement and innovative fundraising strategies may allow the event to expand its reach and support even more life-saving programs.