St. James Health Classic to raise funds for cancer center infusion room enhancements set for August 31

Franciscan Alliance Foundation South Suburban Chicago will hold its annual St. James Health Classic golf outing on Monday, August 31, at Prestwick Country Club in Frankfort.

Golfers will have the option to play in one of two shotgun starts. The morning group will tee off at 7:30 a.m., and the afternoon group will begin at 12:30 p.m. In addition to golf, participants will get to enjoy a lunch buffet, and a 19th hole strolling supper with cocktails upon completion of the afternoon golf.

Golfers will also have the chance to win a new car, courtesy of hole-in-one sponsor, Arnie Bauer Cadillac GMC Buick.

Funds raised at the St. James Health Classic will enhance the infusion room at the Patricia A. Joyce Comprehensive Cancer Institute at Olympia Fields.

The St. James Health Classic began 15 years ago in memory of those who we have lost, those who have fought, and those who have supported loved ones against courageous battles with illnesses. The event has become an annual gathering of those who are dedicated to making a difference in our community.

The Courage Award, which is presented to an individual or family in recognition of their courage and love shown while battling life-threatening illness and sponsored by VITAS Healthcare, is awarded at the St. James Health Classic. This year’s Courage Award will be presented, Evie Deabel and her late husband Deacon Ray Deabel.

While facing Ray’s cancer diagnosis with dignity and bravery, the Chicago Heights residents were fixtures at Franciscan St. James. Together, they showed their love and care for other patients despite the fact that Ray was undergoing radical treatment for the disease.

“With a sense of compassion and a smile on his face, Ray continued his duties as a chaplain at the hospital, while Evie worked as a guest services representative,” said Tony Englert, executive director of the Franciscan Alliance Foundation. “Since Ray’s passing in March, Evie continues her work at the hospital as a shining beacon of courage and faith in the face of adversity.”

St. James Health Classic sponsors include Harris & Harris, Kurtz Ambulance Service; the Franciscan St. James Health Medical Staff; Cassiday Schade, LLP; HeplerBroom, LLC; METT Therapy Services; and Radiology Imaging Consultants, SC.

This event is open to the public. Call 708-747-4000, ext. 85470, for more information or make your reservation.