In September 2016 Kerry was diagnosed with stage 4 Kidney Cancer. Leading up to the diagnosis he had been more tired than normal but wasn’t showing any signs of illness until he caddied for Kamri, their daughter, at a golf tournament. Out of nowhere, his side started to hurt, like stabbing-take-your-breath-away type hurt. His dad and sister were in town for a quick visit and were worried. Before they left, they made him promise to go to the doctor. He didn’t have a doctor; he’s the kind of guy who never gets sick and has no need for a medical professional. He found a family practitioner and made an appointment with a man he’d never met. Two days later the pain was gone, and he was on the verge of canceling the appointment but didn’t because of the promise he’d made. After a quick doctor visit, a blood draw, and an unexpected ultrasound, the results were in. His right kidney was removed 7 days later. That was by far the most scary and exhausting week of our lives.

Kidney cancer doesn’t have a cure and treatment consists solely of clinical trials. There are 1800 trials throughout the US and only 31 FDA approved medications. The medications are basically broken down into two categorical families. Their cancer has only responded positively to one family of drugs, which significantly shortens the list of drugs that yield meaningful results. Kerry has been a part of countless trials, received more than his fair share of radiation treatments, and had so many surgeries they have lost count.

Cancer changes everything, for better or worse. It brought a lot of tears, fear, and general unease but it also brought a few unexpected effects. Kerry wasn’t struck down by cancer. Instead, he changed his perspective. He was given the opportunity to focus on more important things in life. His faith is steadfast, his hope has no boundaries, and his gratitude is immeasurable. Feeling healthy is a blessing. Mundane aspect of life has a new feel. Hanging out with family, teaching, coaching, the ability to swing a golf club, and being able to beat your spouse in mile run are exciting. The opportunity to life an ordinary life is an amazing gift.

Your dollars will not only support the funding Coach Kerry Gabel Medical Fundraiser, but also will impact other junior golfers as well through the ACE Grant program. Your contributions will help talented junior golfers with a desire to better their life through playing junior golf and earning a college golf scholarship. These juniors lack the financial resources to compete at the national level to gain exposure to these scholarships. They need our help as well. The scholarships these juniors earn through their play change the course of their life and the life of their future family.

My goal is to raise $1,000. Would you consider making a donation and making a difference?

There are two ways to contribute - Click Donate Now

• You can make a one-time donation and your credit card will be charged now.
• Or, you can pledge a specific amount for every birdie or eagle I make. I will keep you up to date during the season and then contact you at the end to let you know how much you owe.

If you would like to send a check, please write the check to the American Junior Golf Association and make sure to include my name in the memo section. Please mail to:

AJGA – Leadership Links

1980 Sports Club Drive

Braselton, GA 30517

Thank you in advance for any support you can lend.

Sincerely,

Advait Chutke