A young golfer's incredible journey is making a powerful impact. 'I owe them my life,' says Skylar Friedman, a 17-year-old Long Island resident, as he reflects on his mission to give back to the hospital that saved him. But this story isn't just about gratitude; it's about a teenager's determination to make a difference.
Friedman, a high school golfer with a heart of gold, has set out to repay the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for their life-saving treatment when he was just an infant. He's doing this through his passion for golf, one putt at a time. And the results are astonishing! He has already raised an incredible $700,000, with a current goal of $250,000, and he's not stopping there.
Here's the twist: he's making it a challenge. Friedman created the '100 Putt Challenge,' a unique fundraising idea where golfers pledge money based on the number of successful 6-foot putts they make. And the beauty of it? Anyone can join, anywhere! From golf courses to living rooms, participants are making every putt count.
But here's where it gets personal. Skylar's connection to the hospital runs deep. As a baby, he was diagnosed with a rare lung condition, a mass in his right lower lobe, which threatened his life. The hospital in Philadelphia provided the specialized care he needed, performing a successful operation to remove part of his lung. This experience left an indelible mark on Skylar and his family.
And this is the part most people miss—the emotional drive behind the challenge. Skylar, now a healthy teenager, wants to ensure other children receive the same life-saving care. He's experienced the hospital's kindness firsthand during his frequent visits, and he's determined to give back. His passion inspired his long-time golf trainer, Adam Laird, who joined forces with Skylar to make a difference.
The duo's efforts have gained momentum, with the challenge expanding nationwide. Friedman's high school teammates are set to participate, and the donations keep growing. But the impact goes beyond the funds raised. Skylar's story is a testament to the power of gratitude and the ripple effect of one person's actions.
As he continues to pursue his dream of becoming a mechanical engineer, Skylar's charitable endeavors showcase the potential for positive change. His journey prompts us to reflect: how can we turn our gratitude into action? What can we do to pay it forward? Share your thoughts below, and let's keep the conversation going!
