MARSHALL, Wis. -- This year's flooding has made it a difficult summer for many in southern Wisconsin, but for one Marshall family, times have been particularly tough.

That saying about the worst of times bringing out the best in people? A cliché, yes, but in the case of the Gullixsons, it's startlingly true.

"My son just got married a few weeks ago, and I didn't know if I'd actually be here for the wedding," said Kathy Gullixson.

Since last fall, Gullixson has been fighting liver cancer, a battle she's resigned to losing.

Her family has stood by her, but when the floods came, the Gullixsons found themselves fighting a dual battle.

Even though the family doesn't live near water, groundwater came through the basement, destroying many of their possessions.

"We're still in the process of rebuilding. It just takes a while," said Gullixson.

Neighbor Kathy Sotak became familiar with Gullixson's story and decided to act.

"I said, 'There's just got to be something we can do for her.' And that's when the ball started rolling," said Sotak.

"I was really pleased, and I was happy. I was actually surprised that someone in the community would actually want to help us," said Gullixson.

Sotak organized a fundraiser that took place Saturday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Marshall. All of the profits from the fundraiser will go to the family to help them get back on their feet.

"Times are tough for everybody right now, but it's still nice to be able to help somebody who really needs some help," said Sotak.

Gullixson said every penny will help. And since her cancer diagnosis, she's not taking time or money for granted.

"It's just a matter of time. And I don't know, I've made it eight months now, and hopefully I'll make it until the end of the year. I'd like to see my daughter start school in a couple weeks," said Gullixson.

Sotak and others said they will continue to raise proceeds to benefit the Gullixson family. For more information on how to help, visit Sotak's Web site.