Through the years, our events have sponsored and assisted many families. Below are some of the individuals who inspired us, and showed us the power of strength, love, and of course, FRIENDSHIP
CARL BERG
Carl inspired us to create this event. A friend for eternity, Carl demonstrated the strength to attend our event for 4 years during his battle. He participated in the golf event when he could, and smiled all the way. We lost Carl last year, but know he's at a front table for our event cheering us on.
LISA MORGAN
Lisa was also the inspiration for our inaugural event. Throughout her battle, Lisa demonstrated strength to her loving husband and children. Her sense of humor carried her through. While Lisa is no longer with us, we continue to remember the impact she had on all of us.
MICHAEL HIGGINS
"Higs" was an uncle to one of our founders, friends to all involved. Always the life of the party, he raised the bar on how to battle through the tough times. He is an inspiration and the epitome of the term "never give up". "Higs" left a lasting impression while instilling life lessons and values in all of us.
MICHAEL RANKIN
a local Toms River student who is currently courageously battling leukemia while staying active in sports. Michael is a student at Cedar Grove Elementary School and wrestles for the Toms River Wrestling Club, Mat Warriors, and Shore Thing Wrestling Club. He plays soccer for TRFC Red Bulls Team, and plays baseball for TRELL Yankees. Michael has had a courageous battle and the Toms River Community has really shown their support throughout.
CARA BOVE SCHONER
A local mother of a newborn child who is battling cancer while raising a family. The Bove family is a staple in the community as owners of Luigis Restaurant in Lakehurst and La Bove Grand in Lakehurst as well. Cara was born & raised in Toms River, a graduate of TR East High School. While 17 weeks pregnant with her second child, she was diagnosed with stage 4 Lymphoma. Luca was born on March 28, 2012 and Cara began her treatments. She went through a combination of chemotherapy and radiation as well as frequent evaluations, tests, and scans. The Toms River, Lakehurst, and surrounding communities are all reaching out to support her during her battle.
TIMOTHY VANDERPYL
Timothy is a 7 year old boy with Periventricular Leukomalacia and Cerebral Palsy, and needs assistance with all aspects of everyday life. Timothy was born very prematurely and went through months of heartbreaking procedures and tests. As time goes on, his daily life will continue to consist of physical, occupational, and speech therapies as well as being treated by several different specialists.
MATTHEW DERIGGI
Matthew is a 15 year old boy with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, one of the most fatal genetic disorders. Duchenne results in progressive loss of strength, leads to serious medical problems, particularly issues relating to the heart and lungs. The progressive muscle weakness will continue since muscle cells are easily damaged. You men with this disease typically live into their late twenties.
More to come on:
Sgt Jim Hoopes
Tom Gilroy
Kathy Donovan
Sean Martyn
Paul Selecchia
Diane Dudak