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Fundraiser at Spanish Wells set to raise funds for youth in need of liver transplant.
In 1995, Bob and Fiona Grygiel got the call that every parent fears – their daughter Laura had been hit broadside by an 18-wheeler. Though the beautiful and compassionate 19 year old died soon afterward, her heart is still beating and her lungs are still breathing. In the months prior to her death, Gage had decided to donate her organs; in addition to her heart and lungs, her kidneys, pancreas, liver, and corneas went to save or enrich the lives of others.
“Fortunately, we didn’t have any decision to make,” said Fiona. “She’d already done so. In doing so, she saved the lives of eight other people.”
Laura Gage is still saving lives today. In the 13 years since her death, her parents have spoken publicly about the importance of organ donation and even testified in hearings on Capitol Hill. For the last four years, they have organized the Laura Gage Golf and Tennis Tournament to raise awareness of the importance of transplants and to raise funds for those in need of a transplant.
This tournament will be on October 20 at Spanish Wells Country Club with registration at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12 p.m. The format is a best ball of foursome with full handicap. The cost is $100 per person, which includes golf, cart, dinner at the clubhouse, and prizes. Due to popular demand, a prize will again be awarded for the most uniquely attired foursome, in addition to raffle prizes and tournament winners. There will also be a round-robin tennis tournament organized by Spanish Wells pro Mike Caboy The $50 fee includes and afternoon of tennis along with the dinner and prizes. “We wanted to do something to honor Lauras memory and donate to the cause she truly promoted,” said Fiona Grygiel. “It’s just gotten bigger and bigger. This year will be even greater because we’ve partnered with COTA.” COTA is the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, dedicated to helping children and young adults in need of life-saving transplants by providing fund-raising assistance and family support. “They guarantee that 100 percent of what we give them will go directly to the family - not administrative costs,” she said.
The money raised from this year’s tournament will go to the family of Tony Pasquino, a 15-year-old Charleston boy in need of a life-saving liver transplant. The goal is to raise $10,000. For more information or to register, contact Bob or Fiona Grygiel at (843) 681-2180 or you can also email them at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Hole sponsorships, raffle donations and other donations are still being accepted. Checks payable to COTA.
