Owen T. Wheeler

In June 2002, Owen Wheeler was a vibrant two year old little boy, full of life, energy, and love. One month later, a golf ball sized tumor was detected in the cerebellum of Owen's brain. This tumor was diagnosed as medulloblastoma, an extremely fast growing form of brain cancer. After a full resection of the tumor was performed, Owen and his family began a taxing ordeal of doctor and hospital visits and chemotherapy. Each new day brought more uncertainties. Finally, in early November, there was some good news. Owen's first MRI scan indicated no additional growths. But as is too often the case with medulloblastoma, in just a mere four weeks time, the cancer had spread to cover his entire brain. Radical chemotherapy was scheduled to begin immediately. During Owen's second visit to the hospital for treatment, he unexpectedly slipped into a coma and passed away at 9:15 AM on New Year's Eve 2002.

During the difficult six months in which the Wheeler family fought this deadly disease, everyone who knew Owen, even for a short time, was touched by his shining personality. After witnessing what Owen and his family had endured, a group of friends got together and decided to hold a golf tournament in Owen's memory.

The 1st Annual Owen T. Wheeler Golf Classic was such a huge success that the proceeds raised enabled us to establish the Owen T. Wheeler Foundation. In addition, a gift of $3,500 was presented to the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children in Owen's memory.