Every child deserves a shot at life, plain and simple. That’s what Barbara’s Friends is all about—standing by kids in Southwest Florida as they fight cancer and blood disorders. And let’s be honest, that kind of help doesn’t just show up—it comes from people who roll up their sleeves and care. That’s exactly what we saw at Lexington Country Club: a community where giving back isn’t just a nice idea—it’s just what people do.
Coming Together for a Greater Purpose
This past weekend, Worthington Realty had the privilege of sponsoring the Barbara’s Friends fundraiser at Lexington Country Club. Lexington has a long-standing tradition of stepping up for meaningful causes, bringing people together who are committed to making a real difference in the lives of others. Saturday night was all about good vibes with a Mardi Gras-themed dinner and a wild dueling pianos show that had everyone on their feet. The music kicked off, requests started flying in, and the crowd brought the energy—throwing down big bills for their favorite songs, knowing every dollar was going to help the kids. Our Broker, Brian Rodgers, and his wife, Stacey, were right in the mix, connecting with folks who share the same passion for making a real difference—and having a blast while doing it.
Sunday was all about the golf tournament—a perfect mix of fun and purpose. What stood out most was the people. We met long-time Lexington residents who’ve been part of this community since the beginning, newcomers who just moved in and were eager to get involved, local business owners showing up for a good cause, familiar faces and friends of ours, and even some of the doctors who do the hard, life-changing work of helping these kids every day. My wife, Susana Davis, and I had a blast greeting golfers at Hole #2, handing out cold drinks, sharing laughs, and soaking in all the good energy that comes from a crowd of people united by something that really matters.
Barbara’s Friends: A Lifeline for Families in Need
Since its inception, Barbara’s Friends has been a lifeline for families, helping over 12,000 children and their loved ones face unimaginable challenges with strength and hope. Each year, funds from Barbara’s Friends help families whose children are fighting cancer by covering not only medical equipment and hospital needs but also emergency family expenses—like providing gas for daily treatments, covering medications when insurance falls short, or ensuring parents can stay by their child’s side during treatment by providing meals.
Lexington Country Club has played a vital role in supporting these efforts, helping establish the Barbara’s Friends college scholarships so survivors can pursue bright futures and continue building their dreams. A portion of the funds raised from this event every year goes toward supporting this scholarship program.
Donations also contribute to medical advances in technology and care, including the addition of pediatric neurosurgical services at Golisano and the first-ever total immersion chemotherapy room at the Golisano Children’s Hospital Naples pediatric hematology and oncology clinic.
Thanks to the generous Southwest Florida community, Barbara’s Friends has built a 30-year history of standing by kids with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders, making a life-changing impact for thousands of families.
Worthington Realty’s Ongoing Commitment
Worthington Realty has been a proud supporter of Barbara’s Friends for years. This isn’t just a cause we back—it’s something we believe in deeply. Susana and I have been personally involved, making donations and participating in fundraising efforts that have become meaningful traditions for us.
Twice, I’ve had the privilege of participating in Clips for Cancer, where volunteers raise money and then have their heads shaved by kids—some still fighting, others who’ve already beaten cancer. The experiences from those events stand out to me and left a mark that’s hard to put into words.
I met Annabelle during Clips for Cancer the first time I volunteered to have my head shaved. She was a teenager by then, full of life and strength, having already faced—and beaten—leukemia. Her family had found support and care at Golisano Children’s Hospital, where they received not only world-class medical treatment but the emotional support that every family deserves. Having my head buzzed by Annabelle reminded me why this matters—it’s about showing up for these kids and letting them know they’re not alone.
The following year, I met Jaxson. He was a survivor with a contagious energy, gearing up to head back to school after missing a whole year. Talking with him, hearing his excitement about getting back to his friends and the normalcy of school life, reminded me just how much these illnesses can take away. But in that moment, Jaxson wasn’t defined by what he’d missed—he was focused on what was ahead, and that reminder of resilience left a mark I’ll never forget.
Thank You for Making a Difference
To everyone who participated, donated, or supported the event in any way—thank you. The funds raised this weekend at Lexington Country Club will directly support vital treatments, therapies, and care for children facing some of life’s hardest battles. Your generosity and commitment create real change, giving kids the chance to reclaim moments of childhood they deserve. At Worthington Realty, we are honored to be part of this incredible community. We’re grateful to Lexington Country Club for bringing everyone together to support such an important cause and look forward to continuing this vital work alongside you.
Visit Barbara’s Friends website today to see how you can help fund vital treatments, support life-changing scholarships, and bring hope to children and families who need it most.
