Whitby Memorial Golf Tournament Benefits Prostate Cancer Programs, Patients

Golfers Margot Spies, Patty Plaskon, Jennifer Buckler and Nina Weisenborn were all smiles at the David Whitby Memorial Golf Tournament.

The 10th annual David Whitby Memorial Golf Tournament, held at the River Marsh Golf Club in Cambridge on May 14, benefited programs and patients of the Cancer Center at UM Shore Regional Health.

David Whitby Memorial Golf Tournament founders Gary and Janet Wright

Founded by Gary and Janet Wright 10 years ago after Janet’s brother, David Whitby, died from prostate cancer, the tournament is an important source of funding for prostate cancer awareness and screening programs as well as patient care. Brian Leutner, executive director, Oncology Services, describes the value of the tournament proceeds as immensely important.

“The tournament proceeds have funded our prostate screening events that are offered every year in September where we partner with the local urologists,” says Leutner.  “These funds benefit our UM SRH ‘US TOO’ prostate cancer support group, which features guest speakers who are experts on the latest clinical trials, treatment protocols and strategies for managing prostate cancer and the effects of treatment.  The David Whitby Memorial Fund at UM Memorial Hospital Foundation also has supported recent technology upgrades allowing for more precise treatments for our prostate cancer patients receiving radiation therapy. The entire staff of our Shore Regional Cancer Program would like to thank the Wrights, the tournament committee and  Memorial Hospital Foundation for their continued support of our prostate cancer patients in our community.”

Thomas Sisca, clinical pharmacist and anti-thrombosis specialist, Gary Bigelow, regional director, Radiology and Kevin Chapple, regional director, Pharmacy were among the UM Shore Regional Health team members who participated in the tournament.

Adds F. Graham Lee, vice president of philanthropy for UM SRH, “Cancer of the prostate is one of the most commonly occurring cancers in men in the United States. The funds raised by those who organize and participate in the Whitby Tournament over the years have helped to purchase equipment, provide screenings and ultimately to save lives.”

To support the David Whitby Memorial Prostate Cancer Fund, please call 410-822-1000, extension 5763.