On Aug. 9, 2011, Pee Dee South Carolina APA member Justin Tidwell was diagnosed with stage 3 testicular cancer. Justin missed the entire Fall Session due to surgery and radiation treatments, but he didnt spend that time sulking. Instead, he used his time during treatments and hospital stays to develop a website devoted to raising money to help those who, like him, have little to no medical insurance. You can access the site at cafepress.com/tracshop.
On Jan. 14, 2012, Pee Dee South Carolina APA League Operators Richard and Regina Johnson did what they could to help Justin by organizing a fundraiser. Taking place at Strokers Billiards in Sumter, S.C., and featuring a double elimination Singles tournament as well as raffles, the benefit raised $473. A total of $413 went directly to Justin and $60 went to the winner of the tournament, which just so happened to be Justin! Justin then gave $40 of his winnings to the 2nd Place finisher, Brian Timmons.
Justin has completed his treatments and will know if the cancer is completely gone when he returns to the doctor next month. He is in great spirits and has returned to play in the League for the Spring Session, said Regina.
For more information on the Pee Dee South Carolina APA visit peedeesouthcarolina.apaleagues.com.