Shriners Children's Northwest Classic Raises over $35,000

On Friday, May 15, Shriners Children’s Spokane and Shriners Children’s Portland held their third annual Shriners Children’s Northwest Classic golf tournament at the Nile Shrine Golf Course in Mountlake Terrace, Washington. Over 130 golfers, Shriners, patients and their families came together to raise funds for Shriners Children’s through a day of golf.

This event is a true collaborative effort – both between hospitals and in partnership with the Shriners fraternity. As Seattle’s chapter of Shriners International, the Nile Shriners are affiliated with both the Spokane and Portland locations. The Nile Shrine Golf Course graciously donated the course, golf carts and the clubhouse for this event.

Nile Shriners Potentate Darrick Hayman said that what he loves most about hosting this golf tournament is that the Nile chapter can participate directly in the care provided at both locations. “We love to be here out on the course supporting kids and the philanthropy that we love,” he said.

Year after year, players mention that one of the best aspects of the day is the opportunity to spend time with Shriners Children’s patients and their families. Throughout the day, Patient Ambassadors shared their inspiring stories of hope, allowing players to meet face-to-face with those who benefit most from their donations.

To close the event, Patient Ambassador Isaac and his father, Aaron, took the stage to share their care experience at Shriners Children’s Portland.

Isaac became a patient of Shriners Children’s Portland when he was 9 months old. Born with fibular hemimelia, he had an amputation on his left leg. Since then, the Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) department has fitted him with several prosthetics.

Isaac has never let his difference stop him. Now 16, he thrives in sports that he loves. He plays on his high school’s varsity football team, and this year they competed in Oregon’s state championship.

Through the generosity of players, donors, volunteers and community partners, this year’s tournament raised more than $37,000 – a steady increase from last year’s $30,000. Proceeds will be split evenly between Spokane and Portland, which will help benefit families across the Pacific and Inland Northwest who receive care at these locations.