Honoring Donna's Legacy: The Coolest Golf Tournament Keeping Her Memory Alive
The Coolest Golf Tournament held in memory of Donna has become a heartfelt tradition that not only celebrates her life but also raises awareness and funds for a cause close to her family's heart. Inspired by Donna's diverse talents and her battle with a rare disease, the tournament aims to keep her memory alive while supporting the Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation (AAMDS).
Inspiration Behind the Tournament
The Coolest Golf Tournament was conceived as a way to honor Donna's memory and raise awareness of her rare disease. "We wanted to do something to keep Donna's memory alive, and organizing a golf tournament was something we knew how to do," shared her sister, Denise. "With many of our friends being golfers, we hoped for a big turnout to make a significant impact." The tournament not only commemorates Donna's life but also sheds light on the disease she battled, which lacks substantial funding and support.
A Multi-Talented Individual
Though Donna wasn't an avid golfer, she owned a set of clubs lovingly assembled by her father. Her true passions lay elsewhere, as she was truly a jack of all trades. Donna's skills ranged from carpentry, where she worked alongside her husband in his home improvement business, to leading mission trips for St. Pauls, organizing friendly competitions among groups to see who could build structures the fastest.
Donna's creativity knew no bounds. She was proficient in sewing, knitting, and crocheting, mastering any craft she set her mind to. Her self-taught expertise extended to scrapbooking, where she served as a Creative Memories consultant, leaving behind cherished albums for her family. As a talented artist, Donna excelled in watercolors, winning awards and even starting a framing business to showcase her and others' work. Each year, the tournament auctions a print of one of her paintings.
Her adventurous spirit was evident in her running endeavors, having completed the Marine Corps Marathon, and she enjoyed playing softball in her early years. Donna's ability to excel in diverse fields serves as a testament to her boundless curiosity and passion for learning.
A Lasting Impact
Since its inception, The Coolest Golf Tournament has raised $31,245 for AAMDS, with the first two years being organized independently before partnering with the Downtown Sykesville Connection (DSC) to raise additional funds. AAMDS is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with aplastic anemia and related bone marrow failure diseases, investing in research for new treatments and cures while providing education and support for patients and families.
Reflecting on AAMDS's mission, Donna's sister expressed regret that they had not discovered the organization sooner, as Donna faced her illness stoically, not wishing to burden her loved ones. "The majority of their funding comes from corporations, and only 10% goes to management expenses," she noted. "Every bit of support makes a difference."
A Message of Gratitude
To the golfers and sponsors of the tournament, Donna's family extends their heartfelt gratitude. "Thank you for supporting the tournament and helping us keep Donna's memory alive. Her disease is rare, and AAMDS relies heavily on individual donations, with 20% of their funding coming from donors like you. Every contribution, big or small, matters."
The Coolest Golf Tournament is not just a day of sport but a celebration of Donna's vibrant life and an opportunity to make a difference for those facing similar battles. Her legacy lives on through the love and support of all who participate and contribute, ensuring that her memory continues to inspire and uplift.
The Event Details
