Through a week of harsh weather and wet fairways, members of Oakville Golf Club came together to raise money for the Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation—and they did so in style.
The club organized "Think Pink Week" from July 14-21, featuring a variety of events and pink decorations throughout the club all week.
"We're teeing up for a week of fun, community, and support as we raise funds for Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation's Cancer Exercise Program at Birmingham Gilgan House in Oakville," said the organizers on a post previewing the event.
"Every swing, putt, and donation will directly benefit those in our community affected by cancer, providing vital resources and support when they need it most."
To raise funds, golfers placed bets on groups they thought would win, entered raffle items, and made donations. Events throughout the week featured "Three Jills and a Jack," "Men's R&R Groups," "The Twilighters," "OGC Mixed Classic," and more.
According to one of the event organizers, Adam Laird, the initial fundraising goal was between $25,000 to $30,000. By Sunday, the club unveiled a check for $40,645, and Wellspring says they are still counting funds coming in.
"The generosity of the Oakville community never ceases to amaze us," said Ivanka Hiltschuk, Manager of Fundraising Events at Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation. "Because of this incredible donation, many people will live better with cancer," she continued.
"The total donation will help to fund the Cancer Exercise Program at Wellspring’s Birmingham Gilgan House in Oakville. This 12-week program, led by registered kinesiologists and physiotherapists, aims to positively impact the physical and mental health of people living with cancer."
Tuesday's event was completely rained out, but donations continued to roll in. By the time the flooding cleared up, golfers were back on the course, ready to tee off and continue supporting the cause.
According to one of the club members, Jetta James, the event was successful because everyone was aligned with a common goal. "All of the members have come together for a worthy cause, and that's thanks to our leadership and the individual event convenors," said James.
By the end of the week, club members got together for a "Pink Cocktail Party," where prizes were given away and everyone waited to see the unveiling of the check to Wellspring.
When the check was presented, the room was stunned and burst out in a round of applause as they saw it was for $40,645.
With funds from this year's Think Pink Week going to the Cancer Exercise Program, Wellspring says it will make all the difference. "Exercise has been proven to help people living with cancer manage and reduce symptoms while improving their quality of life. The Cancer Exercise Program is available to anyone with any cancer—no matter the stage in their journey," said Hiltschuk.
The Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation is a charity that provides free services nationwide to those battling cancer, with its two physical locations in Oakville and Toronto. According to Wellspring, their services address the emotional, physical, and practical challenges of a cancer diagnosis and include over 50 evidence-based programs.
Wellspring receives no ongoing government or hospital funding and relies solely on donations. Anyone interested in donating to Wellspring can visit their website.