Every child deserves a shot at life. That’s the mission behind Barbara’s Friends, a fund that supports kids in Southwest Florida who are battling cancer and blood disorders. Recently, Lexington Country Club in Fort Myers brought that mission into focus with a weekend fundraiser that blended music, golf, and community spirit. The result: big hearts, big energy, and life-changing support for local families.
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Barbara’s Friends has helped more than 12,000 children with cancer and blood disorders across Southwest Florida.
- Lexington Country Club hosted a Mardi Gras dinner and golf tournament fundraiser in Fort Myers.
- Funds support treatment, family expenses, scholarships, and pediatric oncology services.
- Worthington Realty proudly sponsored the event, with our team personally involved in the cause.
- Clips for Cancer highlights the resilience of kids and the commitment of the community.
Lexington Country Club Hosts Barbara’s Friends Fundraiser
Worthington Realty was honored to sponsor the recent fundraiser at Lexington Country Club. The weekend featured a Mardi Gras-themed dinner with a dueling pianos show, where guests donated generously for song requests. Every dollar raised went directly to helping kids and families.
The next day brought the golf tournament—a perfect mix of fun and purpose. Golfers included long-time Lexington residents, new homeowners eager to connect, business leaders, and even doctors who care for these kids daily. My wife, Susana, and I spent the day greeting players at Hole #2, handing out cold drinks, and sharing laughs with people united by something bigger than themselves.
What Barbara’s Friends Does for Families
Barbara’s Friends has supported over 12,000 children and their families with vital resources. Beyond medical equipment and hospital needs, funds cover emergency family expenses—helping with gas for treatments, meals during hospital stays, and medications that insurance doesn’t fully cover.
The organization also funds scholarships for survivors and invests in advancements at Golisano Children’s Hospital, such as pediatric neurosurgical services and the first total immersion chemotherapy room in Naples.
Personal Stories That Stay With Us
For me, Clips for Cancer has been one of the most meaningful reminders of why this cause matters. The event raises money for Barbara’s Friends by having volunteers’ heads shaved by pediatric cancer patients and survivors.
The first year I participated, Annabelle—a teenager who had already beaten leukemia—buzzed my head while sharing her family’s journey. Their story showed the importance of having both world-class medical care and emotional support through Golisano Children’s Hospital.
The following year, I met Jaxson, another survivor filled with contagious energy. He was preparing to return to school after missing an entire year of classes. His excitement about being back with friends and regaining a sense of normal life was unforgettable.
Both experiences left a mark that stays with me. They’re the reason Worthington Realty continues to support Barbara’s Friends year after year. It’s about showing up for kids like Annabelle and Jaxson and letting them know they’re not alone.
Why Community Support in Fort Myers Matters
Events like this fundraiser prove that Lexington Country Club isn’t just a place to play golf—it’s a community that shows up for one another. When residents, businesses, and organizations rally around a cause, kids in Southwest Florida get the resources and encouragement they need to keep fighting.
Want to learn more about what drives people to call this area home? Take a look at Why People Keep Moving to Florida for deeper insight into the growth of our community.
FAQs About Barbara’s Friends
Barbara’s Friends is the cancer fund of Golisano Children’s Hospital, supporting kids with cancer and blood disorders in Southwest Florida.
Funds cover treatments, family expenses like gas and meals, scholarships for survivors, and advancements in pediatric oncology services.
Clips for Cancer is an annual fundraiser where volunteers have their heads shaved by pediatric cancer patients and survivors to raise money and awareness.
You can donate directly or participate in events. Visit the Barbara’s Friends website for more information.
Our team believes in supporting the community we live and work in. We’ve been personally involved for years, from sponsoring events to taking part in Clips for Cancer.
Final Thoughts
The Barbara’s Friends Fort Myers fundraiser at Lexington Country Club showed what happens when a community comes together for a cause that matters. Music, golf, and generosity combined to bring hope to kids and families fighting pediatric cancer.
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