Chateau residents, NGHS sponsors, casual golfers, and golfing fanatics recently came together for a charitable cause, raising an impressive sum of over $350,000. On Tuesday, May 16th, the Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) Foundation hosted the 2023 Laurel Classic golf tournament, aiming to benefit the expansion of the Emergency Department at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton. Additionally, during the event, the tournament was renamed in honor of Cheryl Shippey, a long-time Foundation team member.

Among the Chateau residents serving on the board were Sherri Harrison, Hardy Johnson, Russell Smith, Tony Funari, Audra Edwards, Kerri Athanas, and Kathy Fauscett. They were joined by community members David Lee, Tate O'Rourke, Ben Sousa, Caroline Randolf, and Carey Baeumel. This dedicated group of individuals played a pivotal role in organizing and supporting the tournament, ensuring its success.

Sherri Harrison, the chair for the tournament and NGHS Foundation board member expressed her pride in continuing the legacy of raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for health needs in the northeast Georgia community. She remarked, "This year, we're so thrilled to have the proceeds make a difference in emergency care here in Braselton."

The existing Emergency Department at NGMC Braselton was initially constructed in 2015 to accommodate 25,000 annual visits. However, the number of patients seeking care at the facility has more than doubled since then. Recognizing the growing demand, the NGHS Foundation decided to expand the Emergency Department to ensure that the people of northeast Georgia receive the best possible care when they need it most.

Angela Gary, the executive director of Trauma & Emergency Services at NGHS, emphasized the significance of the expansion, stating, "The expansion of our Emergency Department will allow us to continue our mission of providing the people of northeast Georgia with the best possible care." She expressed gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers, and participants for their valuable contributions to this important cause.

The 2023 Laurel Classic golf tournament took place at Chateau Elan's Legends golf club, providing an idyllic setting for the participants. During the 19th hole reception, sponsored by residents Tony Funari and Jim & Audra Edwards, the Foundation announced that the tournament would be renamed in honor of Cheryl Shippey. Cheryl was a dedicated advocate for NGHS, and her unexpected passing in March left a void in the community. She played a pivotal role in the creation of the Laurel Classic and was well-known for her work on Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton's Inaugural Campaign.

Chris Bray, president of the NGHS Foundation, reflected on Cheryl's immense contributions and the impact she made during her nine years of service. He stated, "We feel her loss deeply and know this is a great way to remember her service and all she meant to this community." The tournament's new name, the Cheryl Shippey Memorial Golf Tournament, will serve as a lasting tribute to her memory and fundraising legacy.

During the tournament, several residents showcased their golfing skills, with Sherri Harrison claiming the title for the longest drive and Doug Buchanan achieving the closest to the pin. The first-place team consisted of Jeff Wessels, David Wehunt, Matt Pruitt, and Gary Wright. The second-place team included Bob Holton, Joel Williams, Tim Conley, and Cooper Colton, while the third-place team featured Mike Bell, Steve Suggs, Steve Jones, and Dooley Eaves.

For those interested in supporting the NGHS Foundation or making a donation, further information can be found on their website at www.nghs.com/foundation. Since its establishment in 1986, the foundation has made significant contributions to health system improvements, complementary programs, and partner organizations throughout the region. The generosity of friends and neighbors has played a crucial role in funding critical, life-saving projects, improvements, and patient care services across all four of Northeast Georgia Medical Center's community hospitals.

The success of the 2023 Laurel Classic golf tournament demonstrates the power of community collaboration and the dedication of individuals striving to make a difference. With the funds raised, the NGHS Foundation can continue its mission of improving the health of the community and supporting vital healthcare initiatives in northeast Georgia.