Following is a letter written by James’ Aunt.
September 24, 2008
Dear Friend,
I am writing to request your help for my nephew, James Becker.
On July 29, 2006, James, then 15 years old, went into sudden cardiac arrest and suffered a near-fatal drowning at a community pool. Within 15 minutes after James was pulled from the water paramedics arrived and brought him back with the use of an automated external defibrillator. Unfortunately, the CPR that was used did not supply the brain with sufficient oxygen and he suffered severe anoxic brain damage. James is making progress. Unfortunately, he is still confined to a wheelchair, but has shown improvement with the use of this arms and legs. He is currently attending Maryland School for the Blind and is fully aware of the daily events that take place. He laughs at our jokes, cries at the heartbreaks, but through it all, he continues to keep his chin up and keeps fighting for his recovery. James is now able to enjoy small amounts of pureed food by mouth, but still gets the majority of his nourishment via a feeding tube. James continues to require extensive care and medical treatment.
On October 18, 2008, the Third Annual William James Becker, IV Golf Tournament will be taking place at Pleasant Valley Golf Club in Stewartstown, Pennsylvania to benefit James. The majority of the rehabilitation equipment is not covered by insurance. All proceeds from this event will help provide for some of the necessary equipment and medical treatment that are not covered by insurance. Through the generous support and prayers of those who contribute to this event, James has a great fighting chance.
I am asking for your company to donate something to be used as a silent auction item or a door prize for those who will be golfing or attending the dinner afterwards. Some donations in the past have included Ravens tickets, spa gift certificates, Home Depot or Lowe’s gift certificates, hotel gift certificates, restaurant Gift Certificates, golf apparel or equipment and/or autographed items for an auction. Donations can be sent to my attention at 7415 Rock Jim Road, Stewartstown, PA 17363.
If making a monetary donation is preferred, please make the check payable to “William James Becker IV Discretionary Trust”.
Hole sponsorships are also available for $100.00 each. Your company’s name will appear on a sign for a particular hole on the golf course and again on the sponsor sign in the clubhouse on the day of the event. We also have premier hole sponsorships available for $500.00 (1st or 18th hole).
Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. I can be reached via e-mail at Rchamb1060@aol.com or by phone at 717.993.6818 or 443.824.4301. I look forward to hearing from you.
On behalf of James and his parents, thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Dawn Chamberlain
Fundraising Coordinator
Cheryl Anne DeHart is currently working on getting an AED at every pool in Maryland. If you wish to donate, please contact Ms. DeHart. And, thank you.
