On the Greens tourney Saturday

Community comes together to raise money for diabetes

Gateway staff report

The 12th annual On the Greens golf social event and dinner auction to raise money for juvenile diabetes will be held Saturday at Canterwood Golf & Country Club.

The event, which began in Gig Harbor, has grown significantly over the years.

Organizer Mike Burton, whose daughter, Haley, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when she was 9, said the event is the biggest annual fundraiser in Gig Harbor.

Over the years, Haley Burton has touched many people’s lives by giving Fund A Cure speeches that point to how she handles the disease.

Mike Burton said the event continues to grow each year.

“(People) have a sense of ownership to the event,” he said.

Throughout its history in Gig Harbor, the event has raised about $2 million, Mike Burton said. More than 90 percent of the money goes directly to research.

The following comments are from community members who support the event, and why they come back each year:

Chris Jellison

“I’ve participated over the years because I’m confident we’ll make a difference in finding a cure for this disease. One of the best parts of being involved is seeing the attention to detail that makes it such a great success year after year.”

Dave Rekenthaler

“I keep coming back because I want to support one of my best friends in his charitable effort. I’m impressed by what the event has become over the years, and I’ve enjoyed witnessing its transition firsthand.”

Gary Gahan

“My company and family have been loyal supporters of On The Greens for nine years, since becoming aware of the worthwhile event. My clients and friends whose lives have been impacted by the disease will continue to support the event in hopes that one day a cure may be discovered.”

Georgia Spiropoulus

“This will be our ninth year attending this wonderful event that raises money for Type 1 diabetes research for my daughter and other children living with this disease.

“I am moved every year by the generosity of spirit in our community, and the hope it keeps alive for a cure.”

Mike Leonard

“I come back year after year for a number of reasons. The primary one being my commitment to supporting the efforts to find a cure for diabetes.

“My wife was diagnosed with diabetes almost 17 years ago, and it’s my hope that she will one day be able to live without the support of insulin. I am in awe what they have done to make this event such a huge success.”

Traci Darmody

“I return each year because my incredible mother-in-law was diabetic and died at 52 years old. It’s near and dear to support research so that a long and healthy life can be had by beautiful Haley and all of those afflicted with diabetes.”