Par for a Purpose: Highlights From the 2026 debra Golf Classic
debra of America supporters came together on Sunday, October 4, for Par for a Purpose: The debra Golf Classic at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. The day brought friendly competition and community together in support of individuals and families living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).
Among the golfers on the course were two members of the EB Community, sisters Kathryn and Carly Rasmussen. Both lifelong golfers, they proved to be standouts on the course, and Kathryn even eagled Hole 17. While the desert wind added an extra challenge to every swing, it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the players. Between the windblown drives and the unpredictable putts, the day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to fighting EB.
Honoring leaders in EB care and research
The day was also a chance to recognize people moving EB care and research forward. debra of America was proud to present two Jouni Uitto Impact Awards: one to the Phoenix Children’s EB Clinic, accepted by Dr. Harper Price, Division Chief of Dermatology, and one to Dr. Andrew South, Oros Family Professor in Rare Skin Diseases at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Both have made a lasting difference for the EB Community, and we’re so grateful for their dedication to improving the lives of people living with EB.
Congratulations to our winners
Hats off to our two winning teams, who played through tough conditions with real skill: Jeff Bailey, Tore Tellefson, Peter Corbin, Rob Rayl, and Adam Kopelan, and the Abeona Therapeutics team of Bill White, Brooke White, Puneet Sandhu, and Mark Neeb.
Off the course, our silent auction was a hit. Guests bid on a weeklong stay at the Lake of the Ozarks, a framed Caddyshack golf flag, and a signed Adam Sandler Happy Gilmore jersey.
Thank You
None of this would be possible without our sponsors. Thank you to Pilot Thomas Logistics, Abeona Therapeutics, Stage Analytics, Brightly Property Care, and Goldbook Financial for supporting Par for a Purpose. And thank you to every golfer who joined us and everyone who placed a bid. Your support fuels our mission to improve the quality of life of individuals and families impacted by EB in the United States.
