The phrase APA Family is frequently spoken throughout APA Leagues. A shining example of what this truly means was found in the Pee Dee South Carolina APA on Aug. 29.
To say its been a rough year for longtime APA member Mike Gainey would be an understatement. His lungs collapsed after undergoing heart bypass surgery earlier this year. He then went into liver failure and his kidneys began to shut down. His family was told he would not leave the hospital alive. Fortunately, Mike did improve and was able to return home. Unfortunately, the medical bills began to pile up. Thats when his APA Family stepped in. Mikes teammate, Robby Bryant, approached League Operators Richard and Regina Johnson about organizing a benefit to help cover some of the medical expenses, and the Johnsons didn’t hesitate. We couldn’t have done it without Robbys help Regina Johnson said. Not only was it his idea, but he assisted every step of the way.
The benefit was held at R & Js Billiards & Pub in Florence, S.C., and included a double elimination 8-Ball tournament, food and raffles. The food was provided by the Johnsons and Joe Turner, owner of The Phoenix Bar & Grill, also located in Florence, S.C. Twenty-five players competed in the 8-Ball tournament, where Larry McGee took 1st Place. Two raffles were also held, with Becky Bryant and Ray Weinburg being the lucky winners. Mike was on-hand for the benefit, which raised $650. Hes looking forward to playing pool competitively againhe plans on rejoining his team for the Fall Session. Good luck and best wishes Mike!
For more information about Pee Dee South Carolina APA, please visit peedeesouthcarolina.apaleagues.com.
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