We never wanted to cancel the golf tournament, but, like everything else in the time of COVID, it felt inevitable. We scheduled, canceled, rescheduled, canceled, hemmed, hawed, and, finally, Dan said we were doing it. He was incredibly enthusiastic and optimistic, and I was kind of like that, but mostly the exact opposite of that. Unfortunately, I can let worry get the best of me sometimes, which is one of the reasons I married Dan…he doesn’t worry much. He’s a big dreamer who subscribes to the “if you never try, you’ll never know” mantra. He’s my hype man.
We got to work just 19 days before the November 2nd tournament. We sent out e-mails, made calls, stayed up late, and kept checking items off a mile-long to-do list. We were super touched and blown away by the immediate response. Within days we had a full field of golfers for the tournament. We had generous sponsors, great food vendors, raffle donations, volunteers- it all fell into place, just as Dan knew it would. And yes, this is where I acknowledge that Dan was right, yadda, yadda.
For the third year in a row, the Friends FORE Max Janton Golf Classic had beautiful weather. It was a bit nippy, but no matter. Spirits were high and, just as with years past, there was a warm buzz in the air all day. All those faces, mostly familiar, some new, were smiling and there was a genuine exchange of love and remembrance amongst everyone. It felt that way to me, anyway. We all knew why we were there, and I felt like Max stayed front and center the entire time.
I’m especially grateful for days like this. Life has changed so much in the three years since Max left. Everything keeps moving forward, no matter how much we wish to go back. I desperately long for everyone to talk about Max all the time. To know him, remember him, say his name, cry with me, smile with me, recall his many funny stories. Max is threaded throughout my days, an essence I pray only grows stronger, and I so appreciate when others think of him, too, and share that with me. And I’m so thankful for days like the golf tournament, when we can all gather in his honor.
The tournament was a beautiful experience that our family will treasure. I’m so happy to share that we raised nearly $25,000 through the tournament and online donations. Max’s supporters never fail to amaze us.
Thank you so much to everyone who gave, in any capacity, to the Friends FORE Max Janton Golf Classic. We will be sure to tell each family we serve about our precious community who makes this foundation possible. It is so special for us to see Max’s life continue to touch others and gives us an amazing opportunity to show his brothers, not just tell them, how amazing their big brother is. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.