'Live Your Cor' Fundraiser Honors Young Man Lost Too Soon

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — Remembering his bright smile, laughter, and the joy he brought the many who loved him, the community will once again turn out Saturday to remember Cory Hubbard at the annual "Live Your Cor" fundraiser.

Cory, known for his adventurous spirit, his kind heart and innate humor, died tragically four years ago when he was just 22 years old. A student at the University of Maryland, Cory lost his life after he was struck by a hit-and-run driver.

Saturday's fundraiser will take place at John Scott's Surf Shack, located at 540 Dune Road in Westhampton Beach. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Cory Hubbard Memorial Scholarship and the Live Your Cor Foundation.

"We look forward to celebrating Cory’s life with his friends," said Ralph and Holly Hubbard, Cory's parents. "While it’s bittersweet, we are happy to help others in Cory’s name."

Parking is limited so the Hubbards ask that guests take a taxi, Uber, Lyft or other means of transportation.

The Live Your Cor Foundation provides funds for local families facing adversity.

"Through your generosity, we have been able to help families facing personal loss, disease, accidents, and other challenges," the Hubbards have said.

The event takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. A $5 entry fee includes a raffle ticket. Live Your Cor apparel will be available for purchase. To make a donation, mail checks payable to "Live Your Cor" to 17 Bridle Path, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978.

In the years since his death, Cory's parents, as well as his brother Kyle, have kept his bright light alive through acts of kindness.

In the years since he died, his friends have carried Cory in their hearts, traveling the world and taking photos in far-flung destinations with "Live Your Cor" shirts and stickers, keeping his joyful spirit and love of surfing soaring strong.

Cory left a long legacy at Westhampton Beach High School: The fitness room has a wall dedicated to Cory, designed by Katie Parry. "It will hopefully inspire young athletes to strive for leadership, character and maintain a team-first attitude," Ralph Hubbard said.

The years since they lost their son have not been easy for the Hubbards.

"Since Cory was hit and killed by a drunk driver, we have met many parents who have lost children through our involvement with The Compassionate Friends," Hubbard said. "We have come to realize that the loss of a child is unlike other losses. We know people who are grieving the loss of their child for over 20 years. When you lose a child or sibling or even a grandchild you lose a future and the milestones of their friends and contemporaries are constant reminders of the loss."

Cory's loss bring tears to his friends but the memories always bring smiles of joy.

His father added: "There is a saying in the Compassionate Friends that says, 'If you say my child's name it may bring a tear to my eye, but if you don't mention them it breaks my heart.' That sums up what we feel about the scholarships and dedications created in Cory's memory. We will never get over our loss but we are blessed that our friends and family are comfortable remembering him and bring him up often."

Patch photo courtesy of the Hubbard family.