PHILIPSBURG — In 2012, Tom and Kari Whitehead’s daughter Emily of Philipsburg became the first pediatric patient in the world to receive CAR T-cell therapy at Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
Two years earlier, Emily was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and although this type of leukemia could be cured at the time, Emily did not respond to treatment.
She relapsed twice and eventually her doctors went through all known treatment options.
It was then that the family heard about the new experimental trial at CHOP and they enrolled Emily in what was called CAR T-cell therapy.
It was anything but easy, but Emily’s treatment was a success, and she is now a senior college student at the University of Pennsylvania and 14-years cancer-free.
In response to their daughter’s inspiring recovery, the Whiteheads began the Emily Whitehead Foundation, which strives to share Emily’s story and raise funds and awareness of CAR T-cell therapy and childhood cancer research.
The foundation works to advance cures, help families, and advocate for access to advanced treatments around the world.
One of the many activities sponsored by the foundation happened this past weekend at the Philipsburg Elks Lodge and Country Club in Philipsburg.
It was the 12th Annual Tee Off for T-Cells Golf Tournament in which more than 110 golfers, along with numerous supporters and volunteers, came out to share their resolve to help kids with cancer.
CNB Bank was the Presenting Sponsor of the tournament and contributed $10,000 in support of the event. The event raised $55,000 in contributions.
The tournament, an 18-hole, four-person scramble, was played on Friday, July 10 at the club and was won by the team of Chris Wagner, Glen Sekumda, Jim Pringle and Dan Swanson with a scramble score of 14-under par 56.
Second place went to Elliot Lauder, Garrett Lauder, Gus Ingram and Rick Clark at 13-under 57, and third place had Brian Corrigan, Justin Behrens, Robin Hay and Steve Frank at 12-under 58.
Duane Ricketts won the straightest drive, and Even Summerson won closest to the pin on hole 4/13. Glen Sekunda won longest drive, and Trever Straw won closest to the pin on 9/18. The putting contest was won by Todd McCliment, and the women’s long drive went to Carrie Wood.
The event, by any measure, was another great success.
The Whitehead family released a special note thanking all the players, sponsors, volunteers and supporters of the tournament.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our hometown community here in Philipsburg,” the family said in a statement. “From the beginning, you have stood beside us, and your generosity has helped make our mission possible.
“Because of supporters like you, the Tee Off for T-Cells Golf Tournament continues to create meaningful impact for patients and caregivers affected by cancer and rare diseases. Your support helps us provide resources, connection, and hope to families navigating some of life’s most challenging moments, while also advancing our efforts to ensure more patients can access the advanced therapies they need.
“As we look toward the future, we are excited to continue expanding our reach and impact. None of it would be possible without your partnership, belief in our mission, and commitment to the families we serve.
“Thank you for being part of the journey.”
