Community Golfing for a Good Cause

PALMETTO – Imagine having a sick or dying child in the hospital, and then imagine trying to cope with everyday responsibilities while that child is ill. The scenario seems unthinkable, but the situation is becoming more common, especially in an economy where a growing number of people are struggling to make ends meet.  

Last year 140 families in that very situation were helped, thanks to a local non-profit organization called Emma’s Little Helpers. ELH provides assistance to families in the Tampa Bay area that have children undergoing medical treatment. Their services are intended to reduce the stress associated with hospital stays, while maintaining the family’s quality of life both at home and at the hospital.

Now advocates can offer support by picking up a pitching wedge and partaking in their favorite pastime.  ELH’s annual Charity Golf Tournament will be held at Tatum Ridge Golf Links on March 31, 2012. The contributions comprise the majority of the charity’s annual budget, which last year was approximately $7,000. Any player who makes a hole in one on the 17 green, instantly wins a Can-Am X1000 Outlander ATV, valued at over $10,000. 

While at least 50 people competed in last year’s tournament, this year, the group said they are experiencing a critically low level of support. 

”Our goal was to have 80 people sign up,“ said board member Colin Tripp. ”We’ve only gotten about 20 applicants."

Tripp still manages to stay positive despite the shortage. He is just happy to be doing what he can for those in need.

”So far we haven’t denied a single family who has asked for assistance,“ he said. 

Tripp started the organization in 2010 after his sister and her husband, Shay and Chuck Hague, experienced a life-altering occurrence when their new infant was diagnosed with a brain condition called Hydrocephalus. Their daughter, Emma, underwent 20 surgeries in her first two years of life. The couple said that one of the biggest challenges while Emma was in the hospital was to get everyday tasks done, like mowing the lawn or letting the pets out. Another hardship was the costs associated with lengthy hospital stays. It wasn’t just the medical bills, but the extra gas it took to commute to All Children’s Hospital and money spent for meals on the go that affected the family’s budget.

ELH works closely with All Children’s Hospital. Hospital employees referred most of the families that that have been chosen to receive aide, but families in need can apply online. ELH assists the parents in any way they can whether it’s bringing a change of clothes to the hospital, watching siblings and in one instance, even donating air miles. 

”We are always open to requests as to how we can be of assistance,“ said Tripp. ”We are also looking to expand to other area hospitals. Once word gets out about us, we hope we are able to form even more partnerships,“