By any score, the annual Sara K. Buckley Tennis Tournament, an inspirational third-party event that benefits the Cancer Patient Support Fund, is a smashing success. Since it began in 2008, organizers have honored the memory of a dear friend, cheered on supporters who have faced a cancer diagnosis and raised over $310,000 to support Centra cancer patients in need.
When Sara Katherine Biggers Buckley passed away in 2007 after a courageous battle with breast cancer, some of her Lynchburg-area friends wanted to honor her in a way that would also impact the health of the community.
The first Sara K. Buckley Tennis Tournament was held in 2008 at Boonsboro Country Club.
“Sara’s family was and is really supportive because everyone was so grateful for how the Lynchburg community rallied around Sara after she was diagnosed,” said Denise Palys, one of the founders and organizers. “It has been years, but we are still going strong. The money goes to a really great cause that we are all passionate about.”
Proceeds from the third-party event benefit the Cancer Patient Support Fund. The fund supports Centra cancer patients who struggle to afford acute needs such as pain or nausea medication, transportation to appointments, nutrition supplements, compression garments, medical equipment and more. It is one of over 80 funds, endowments and trusts managed by the Centra Foundation to support patients and enhance cancer care, pediatric care, heart and vascular care, nursing and more.
So far, the tournament has raised over $310,000 to support local cancer patients in need.
Representatives from the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center attend the event each year and share stories of incredible impact.
“It makes you realize how important the event is for cancer patients in our community who are uninsured and underinsured,” Denise said. “Every little bit helps, and it all adds up. It really makes a difference in the day-to-day lives of people who are battling a horrible disease.”
The tournament’s success is due to a group of dedicated organizers, several of whom are spouses of Centra Caregivers, generous donors and sponsors, and the players.
“Everyone comes together to make it a really fun and meaningful day,” Denise shared. “The organizing committee has changed some since the beginning, but every single person is passionate about the purpose.”
The outdoor tournament begins with a welcome and words about Sara Buckley. Organizers describe her as a dear friend, loving mother of two, wife, flight attendant and someone who was passionate about faith, adventure, tennis and community.
The welcome is followed by a moment of silence for all who are affected by cancer. The day is always filled with lots of laughter, fond memories, encouragement, good food, raffle baskets and friendly competition.
This year’s tournament, held May 1 on a bright blue-sky day, also honored Kristen Cook, one of the long-time organizers who passed away last spring after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer.
“Speaking on behalf of the entire committee, we are glad that we have been able to bring so many women together for an event that gives so much back to the community, and that we can celebrate Sara and others affected by cancer,” Denise said. “It is always heartwarming. Our next big goal is definitely to get to 20 years.”
If you are interested in hosting a fundraising event, please visit CentraFoundation.com/Events.
