16th Annual CNI Golf Tourney at Bear Dance

Golfers don’t use umbrellas.

Oh, what a beautiful day. Typical of our fickle-weathered state, it started out glorious. Every golfer I passed commented on the gorgeous weather and how much fun they were having. The shot-gun kick-off game had everyone starting at the same time at different holes. Scores were important of course, always among foursomes of friends and family who had joined the event knowing their green’s fees were going to this important fundraiser benefitting the Colorado Neurological Institute.

Colorado Neurological Institute (CNI), is a non-profit neuroscience organization. It has  provided research, education and patient services for persons with neurological conditions and their caregivers since 1988. As the only nonprofit organization in the Rocky Mountain Region of its kind, CNI offers patients easy access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care, support services, clinical trials, outpatient neuro rehab, classes, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, clinical trials, counseling and more.

CNI is especially helpful to those suffering from the neurological disease of Parkinson’s. PD is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system mainly affecting the motor system. Tom Draayer and Betsy Mathies who suffer with PD, were sincerely grateful to CNI’s research that help them with their everyday life. Draayer demonstrated a small device that, when activated by his motions, allows him added flexibility, like on the golf course. He showed the audience the limitation of his hand without the electronic device. Then proudly showed how he was able to play a great game of golf this day with a solid, yet flexible grip. All due to the small box that stimulates his nervous system where needed. It was remarkable to see.

When you are diagnosed with a neurological condition it takes more than just a doctor to help you live the best life possible. Tami Lack, executive director, added an addendum to Betsy and Tom’s presentation. She reminded everyone chowing down on the burgers and brats that Tom’s success was from the fundraisers and donations that went to research. She was not afraid to ask for a donation and encouraged each golfer to fill out a donation form at their seat.

Bear Dance Golf Club extolled the effects of Colorado’s endless weeks of rain. The bright neon fairways and manicured greens glowed magnificently with picturesque foothills and snow capped Rocky Mountains as the backdrop. The beauty of it all made everyone play a little better, I’m sure.

The Mission of Colorado Neurological Institute is to enhance the delivery of personalized, comprehensive and state-of-the-art care to patients with neurological conditions through coordinated research, patient services and education. If you’re experiencing a neurological condition, please call 303-788-4010. You will be referred to an associate or one of their numerous programs. www.thecni.org

Proceeds from the Classic allow CNI to provide research, patient services and education programs to patients, caregivers, and physicians facing neurological conditions.