For the past 16 years, Island Pointe Golf Club has been my second home. Many of you have seen me out on the course with the maintenance crew or in the Clubhouse welcoming guests. I’ve always loved this place—not just for the game, but for the community that surrounds it.
Now, I’m facing a challenge I never expected.
Last year, I was diagnosed with TP53-mutated Mantle Cell Lymphoma—a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. My specific diagnosis includes what’s called “blastoid morphology,” which makes the disease act even more aggressively and respond poorly to standard treatment. There’s no cure, and currently, there’s no standard path for treatment either.
For the past 10 months, I’ve been traveling to Boston to receive care at Massachusetts General Hospital, in partnership with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I’m part of a clinical trial that uses targeted therapy and immunotherapy—new approaches that give me a better chance than traditional chemotherapy ever could.
This journey has changed my life. It’s shown me the gaps in care, the overwhelming needs of patients and families, and the power of hope—especially when hope comes in the form of research, support, and community.
That’s why I started Links Fore Leukemia, Inc.—a non-profit with one mission: to raise money and awareness for blood cancers. This disease hit me personally, but I’ve learned that too many people in our community are facing the same or similar diagnoses. Here in Knox County alone, there are 336 new leukemia cases each year—not including other blood cancers like lymphoma or myeloma. Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life.
So this fall, we’re hosting our first-ever Links Fore Leukemia Golf Outing at Island Pointe. It’s not just about golf. It’s about standing together to make a difference. Proceeds will benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, which provided over $5.5 million in support to Tennesseans last year alone—helping patients with travel, co-pays, and other urgent needs.
I know what it’s like to face a disease that tries to steal your time, your energy, and your peace of mind. I also know how powerful it is to have people standing with you.
This outing is my way of giving back. It’s a way to fight—not just for myself, but for everyone who hears the word “cancer” and has to find the courage to keep going.
Whether you’re a lifelong golfer, a beginner, or simply someone who wants to help make a difference—I hope you’ll join us.
Let’s make every swing count. For me. For the next patient. For a future where blood cancers no longer exist.
To learn more about The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society click the button below