Friends of Kids with Cancer’s 26th annual Golf Tournament and Auction was bigger and better than ever this year, thanks to returning and new sponsors securing spots early and selling out this record-raising event.
Each year, this tournament out-performs itself by offering inspiring appearances and speeches from local heroes like two young adult patients, Jon Feretti and Devin Luetkemeyer, and St. Louis Blues Center, Robert Thomas, as well as increasingly desirable luxury packages and items for auction and raffle.
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Robert Thomas motions to double his donation of a signed jersey and meet-and-greet during the Live Auction. |
Fan favorites were offered again this year, such as breakfast from Russo’s Gourmet Catering and delicious burgers and brats provided by O'B Clark's and grilled to perfection by board member, Tommy Russo.
Following the completion of 18 holes, golfers met in the clubhouse for the live auction and dinner program. Custom plaques were distributed for many of the incredible sponsors, designed by Jude and Emma, a Friends Art Therapy patient and mom.
Robert Thomas surprised the evening patient speaker, Devin, by sitting with him and his family at dinner. Devin, a huge hockey fan and player prior to his diagnosis, looked delighted and surprised when he realized he’d be chatting with Thomas all evening after giving an inspiring speech about his cancer journey.
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Robert Thomas poses with morning speaker, Jon, his mom, and Brandy Bimslager. |
As the honorary chairperson of the golf tournament, Thomas also supported the fundraiser by donating multiple signed items for auction and a meet-and-greet for the highest bidder. Throughout the day, Thomas encouraged players through video to engage in raffles and auctions.
Friends is incredibly grateful to all the golfers, guests, sponsors and volunteers who contributed to the success of this fundraiser, enabling the organization to carry out the mission of helping kids with cancer... be kids!
“It’s the largest golf tournament that we’re a part of. We get a lot of people here that tell amazing stories, and that’s what’s different. Here at Friends of Kids with Cancer, every year you have someone telling their personal story. You actually see the people you’re helping out. You don’t get that anywhere else.” —Candon Powell, Senior Account Executive at Ally
