Community Honours Ken Pentney's Legacy with Annual Memorial Events to Fight Cancer
Published Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Pictured, middle, is Laurie Pentney with golfers from last year's Ken Pentney Memorial Golf Tournament.
Since 2012, the community of Sleeman, ON, located in the Rainy River District, has come together to honour the memory of Ken Pentney through the annual Ken Pentney Memorial Golf Tournament and 5K walk. Ken, a beloved community member who was instrumental in developing the Spruce Creek Golf Course, lost his battle to colon cancer in 2011. These events serve as a tribute, raising essential funds for the Northern Cancer Fund in his memory.
The first Ken Pentney Memorial Golf Tournament took place in 2012, a year after Ken's passing, with the 5K walk being introduced in 2016. To date, both events have collectively raised an impressive $72,392.28.
Organizing these events is a labor of love for the organizers, with friends and family dedicated to ensuring they are enjoyable and successful. The golf tournament takes place each July - a lively event filled with laughter that can be heard across the golf course and friendly competition during the silent auction, available both online and in-person. The 5K walk on Labour Day weekend provides the community an opportunity to connect with fellow walkers, followed by a bake sale that, despite its indulgence, plays a significant role in their fundraising efforts.
Ken's cancer treatments took place in Fort Frances, where the staff left a lasting impression on him. The satellite units provided the comfort of returning home each evening after treatment, which was a significant benefit for patients. Although Ken's appointments in Thunder Bay were less frequent, the staff's kindness and helpfulness were always evident.
“Our family continues to be personally affected by cancer; my daughter has been battling colon cancer for the past two years. Fortunately, it was caught early, and after numerous battles, she is now cancer-free. The care and kindness from the staff in Thunder Bay and Fort Frances have been exceptional. The ability to have many doctor's visits via teleconference has been a game-changer, reducing the need for lengthy and exhausting trips. We are grateful for the improvements in managing side effects and the attention to patient well-being, outcomes of ongoing research and support.” says Laurie Pentney.
This year, the golf tournament is taking place on Saturday, July 27th, and the 5K walk on Saturday August 31st in Sleeman, ON. Through these events, the community continues to honour Ken's legacy and support cancer care, while aiming for many more years of laughter, friendship, and successful fundraising.
You can support the cause by donating on their fundraising page here.
Do you have an idea for a community event that would align with your passion to make a difference? Contact Selena Owen from our Events team at (807) 684-7788 or email at selena.owen@tbh.net for assistance in developing or supporting your event.