The Story Behind The Big Tom Classic:
Two Brothers Channel Their Grief To Help Others
There are many different ways people cope with grief after the loss of a loved one. Following the sudden death of their father, Tom and Will Israel poured their heart into creating the Big Tom Classic, a golf tournament named in memory of their dad and a fundraiser to create public awareness and make life better for future stroke survivors.
It was June 20, 2005, when Tom Israel passed away as the result of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. His family describes him as a businessman, outdoorsman, golfer, and most importantly, father and husband. His endearing sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. For these reasons, it was important to Will and Tom to make the Big Tom Classic a fun and uplifting event.
"When we decided that we were going to organize the tournament in dad's honor, we needed to figure out where the proceeds would go. At first we contacted a national stroke awareness group in California and an aneurysm foundation, but it didn't feel right. We wanted the funds to go locally," said Will. After contact with the Mission Healthcare Foundation, Will and Tom learned that their fundraising efforts could benefit Mission's Neuroscience program and support local stroke survivors.
"Strokes are the third leading cause of death in this country. It is often overlooked, because cancer and heart disease are the first and second leading causes," said Tom. Creating additional funding for stroke education and treatment was the inspiration that fueled the event. Tremendous support from their family, friends, physicians and hospital staff made this a huge first-year success, raising over $15,000.
What is even more unique about this tournament is that it was realized by younger adults who are mid-to late 30's in age. Will and Tom gathered their peer group to support this endeavor. Organizing the event became a passion for Will and Tom. "It helped me bring a sense of closure and justification of dad's death," said Will.
Dr. Alex Schneider, Director of the Mission Neurology Services and member of the medical team who cared for Tom and Will's father at Mission Hospitals, said, "Mr. Israel suffered a very serious stroke and it was very touching to see him surrounded by a large, caring family that loved him. Tom and Will's efforts for stroke awareness in memory of their father are a testament to this wonderful family and their compassion. The Big Tom Classic will make a difference in the health of our community with regards to stroke prevention and treatment."
-Originally published in Mission Healthcare Foundation's newsletter, Inspiration, in Fall 2006
The Big Tom Classic Memorial Golf Tournament enters its third year in 2008.
