Augusta, Ga. (May 13, 2025) – Piedmont Augusta Foundation raised $290,000 as a result of its 39th annual Jernigan Memorial Golf Tournament, which was held on May 5 at Woodside Plantation in Aiken, S.C.
The tournament is named for Harry W. Jernigan Jr., who founded University Health Care Foundation in 1978 to provide for the special needs of patients. The proceeds from this year’s tournament, recognized as the oldest golf tournament in the Augusta region aside from the Masters Tournament, were designated to support the Colorectal Cancer fund at Piedmont Augusta. “Mr. Jernigan served faithfully as the Foundation’s president until his death in 1984,” said Piedmont Augusta Foundation Executive Director Anne Catherine Murray. “We continue to ensure that Mr. Jernigan’s legacy lives on with this tournament. He would be proud that 100 percent of the proceeds stays in this community.”
Piedmont Augusta Foundation’s annual fundraiser launched with an opening celebration on Sunday, May 4, at Greystone Preserve in North Augusta. One hundred and fifty patrons enjoyed a low country boil catered by Midtown Tavern and music provided by The Mason Jars. A live auction raised almost $15,000 for Piedmont Augusta’s new Colorectal Cancer fund. The fund will assist in covering the imaging and labs needed prior to surgical treatment as well as any necessary follow up imaging and labs.
Barry Jenkins, M.D., Piedmont Augusta Chief Medical Officer, shared that colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death, with the fastest-growing age group affected being under 45. Colorectal cancer navigator Brooke Negrete spoke on the importance of early detection and the disadvantages faced by patients who are underinsured, saying “Financial toxicity is a reality for many facing a cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll this takes is often overlooked: it leads to anxiety, depression and, in many cases, patients choosing to forgo or delay treatment simply because they cannot afford it. Tragically, the financial barrier can turn a treatable illness into a terminal one.” Colon cancer patient Cheterria White bravely shared her journey with the group, highlighting the difficulties experienced by patients who lose coverage as a result of loss of employment during treatment.
On Monday, May 5, 68 teams teed off across four courses at Woodside Country Club and The Reserve Club in Aiken. This year's tournament was presented by Piedmont Augusta’s Volunteer Services, along with over 80 other sponsors who enjoyed a beautiful day on the course. Murray was proud to announce that $290,000 was raised across both events for the Colorectal Cancer fund, noting “it is clear that our community understands the importance of assisting our brothers and sisters facing medical crises, and it is a rare individual who doesn't know someone whose life has been impacted by colorectal cancer. We are grateful to everyone who opened up their hearts and wallets to make the 39th Jernigan a wonderful experience for all.”
Congratulations to this year’s First Place teams, including Medtronic, CSRA Land Trust, Brown and Radiology Associates, and Knee Rover!