For more than 25 years the Country Wood Golfers have strived to unite their community in the fight against cancer.
This was their record-breaking year, with $10,000 raised and donated to Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute. The group raises funds by hosting a variety of events including a golf tournament, poker run, dinners and more. They dedicate countless hours to the work and the committee sends every penny to aid in patient care and cancer research.
“All of us know so many people that have had cancer, that have died from cancer and survived from cancer,” AnnaMae Faragon said. “It’s just a great cause.”
Approximately 39.6% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes, according to the National Cancer Institute. The disease has impacted the lives of so many across the country and here in the Plant City community, including several on the committee.
Betty Conner has been a survivor for 18 years and Pat Matsko for less than a year. The woman who ran the committee prior to Rose Kramer died from cancer three years ago.
The events begin in October and run through the spring. However, the women work year-round to ensure the upcoming year is a record best. They often swap out events to keep the lineup fresh and draw in their community.
The group said the community has continued to step up to the plate and join them in the fight. Everyone from local businesses to next door neighbors contribute to the events and raise money for the cause.
“When people come to events, say they stop in at the yard sale, they ask ‘And when’s the next one?” Rosanne Malagrino said.
This year, Kramer said she secretly had hoped they would be able to reach $10,000. Toward the end of the events, the group was $342 short of their goal. Then, the community stepped up. A man called after the last event inquiring as to how close to the final goal they had gotten. When she told them what they were lacking, he brought over a check of the difference and requested to remain anonymous.
Joan Macisco, a member of the Country Wood Golfers, said seeing the check presentation on the day they toured Moffitt brought tears to her eyes because they were able to see all of their hard work come to fruition.
“I think people in the community respond so well to this fundraiser because they’re all familiar with Moffitt because it’s close and many of our people have been there and they know where their money is going,” Macisco said.
As the years go by the committee grows as residents continue to want to get more involved in the cause. Though new members are added, few ever leave.
The group meets at least once a month and many members golf together every Thursday, though several on the committee are not involved in the sport whatsoever. Those interested in contributing or who are seeking more information can call Kramer at 813-752-9693.
“We have a great community full of loving and generous people,” Kramer said. “They’ve always supported us, but the more events we’re having the more they’re giving. We couldn’t do this without their help.”