1st Annual
Woodruff GOLF CLASSIC
Welcome to the 1st Annual Woodruff Golf Classic. This event marks the beginning of an annual tradition aimed at raising awareness and funds for individuals who bravely face the daily challenges of living with Heart Failure.
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Meet Brad Woodruff, a true inspiration who confronts life with unmatched courage. Despite facing the daily hurdles of Heart Failure, Brad and his incredible wife Shaelin are determined to make a difference. They have decided to channel their strength and love into a cause that extends beyond their personal journey: the HeartBrothers Foundation.
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By hosting this golf tournament, the Woodruffs aim to raise funds and awareness for heart health, inspiring others to join the fight against Heart Failure.
DATE:
Friday, May 31, 2024
LOCATION:
Simsbury Farms Golf Course
​REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
MY STORY
by Brad Woodruff
There are certain days and events in life that alter the course of one's journey. For me, that day was January 1st, 2013. An active athlete and avid sports fan, I was doing one of my favorite things—playing pick-up hockey during my winter college break of my sophomore year. Unfortunately, the game was cut short after I collapsed on the ice during my shift. I was unconscious for several seconds and miraculously woke up on the ice.
After numerous tests in the hospital, it turned out I had experienced sudden cardiac arrest and was diagnosed with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy—Heart Failure. This came as a complete shock as I was a two-sport college athlete and in the best shape of my life. But my life as a healthy 20-year-old college athlete was now over. After being put on medication and having an ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) placed inside my chest, I left the hospital to embark on my new life as a Heart Failure patient.
The past 10 years living with Heart Failure have consisted of countless doctor appointments, hospital visits, medical procedures, and expenses. Having Heart Failure is an extremely scary and uncomfortable predicament. My ICD has activated several times, saving my life each time. I was recently put on a heart transplant waiting list. Dealing with all this takes a dramatic emotional and physical toll.
"Not knowing what the future holds or when I may go into cardiac arrest again and praying that my device will work are all things I, and other Heart Failure patients, must deal with every single day."
I have been blessed with excellent care from nurses and doctors at Hartford Hospital and UCONN Health in Farmington, Connecticut, and a strong support system of friends, family, and my wife Shaelin, who have been there for me every step of this journey. Living with Heart Failure has led me to want to make an impact in this community and raise awareness for this disease, helping patients who have been going through similar experiences.
"It was a miracle that I woke up from my sudden cardiac arrest in 2013 without the aid of defibrillator or medical personnel. Most do not."
I have been given another shot at life and I want to make sure I take advantage of this gift by fighting for and helping people who are battling this same devastating diagnosis. When I first learned about The HeartBrothers Foundation and heard the heart transplant story of Co-Founder Pat Sullivan, I knew I wanted to partner with this organization and create an event to help the fight in raising awareness for Heart Failure patients.
Living with Heart Failure inhibits many aspects of life—especially physical activity and sports. Luckily, while my athletic career was cut short, one of the sports I was able to continue to play was golf. And I’m now putting my love of golf to use by establishing this charity golf tournament in partnership with The HeartBrothers to raise awareness and funds for Heart Failure.
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I could not be more pleased to officially announce that The First Annual Woodruff Golf Classic – Benefitting Heart Failure Awareness & The HeartBrothers Foundation will take place Friday, May 31, 2024, at Simsbury Farms Golf Course in West Simsbury, Connecticut. I hope to see many of you teeing up on the course with me.
If you cannot participate as a golfer, you can still donate and we've included links on this page with all the ways you can get involved. Every little bit helps, and no effort is too small. I greatly appreciate your support.
Why GOLF FOR A CAUSE?
Join us for a day filled with camaraderie, goodwill, and the shared mission of making a difference. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time golfer, this event is open to all who are passionate about making a positive impact. Let's come together as a community to support the countless people affected by Heart Failure.
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All proceeds from this event will go directly to the HeartBrothers Foundation, an organization committed to improving the lives of Heart Failure patients and their families. Your support will fund critical research, provide resources, and offer much-needed assistance to those navigating the challenges of heart-related illnesses.
HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Participate as a golfer, sponsor at one of our many levels, or simply donate a small amount – every contribution counts. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those battling Heart Failure.
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Click any button below to learn more or contact us.
*Prefer to pay by check? Please contact Shaelin Woodruff.
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