On May 14, Texas Children’s Austin hosted its sold-out Second Annual Legacy Golf Classic, presented by McCarthy Building Companies, at the historic Lions Municipal Golf Course.
The event raised $255,000, which will benefit the hospital’s Child Life Department. This department uses art, music, and play to help pediatric patients manage anxiety and navigate medical procedures.
The event united business leaders, donors, and advocates in support of children’s health, creating opportunities for community engagement while raising awareness and resources for pediatric care.
One of the most heartfelt moments of the evening came as Austin resident and Child Life Specialist Emily Papermaster shared her daughter Eva’s story – reflecting on the comfort, guidance, and support Child Life Specialists provided throughout her treatment at Texas Children’s Austin.
“These Child Life Specialists are not just here for the children,” Papermaster said. “They are here for the parents, so that we can stay strong and do what we need to do to support our kids.”
Through small but meaningful acts, such as helping Eva remain calm during IV testing and decorating her anesthesia mask before an MRI, the Child Life Specialists at Texas Children’s Austin eased her fears and helped her navigate her medical experience with confidence. Their compassionate care offered reassurance to her entire family.
The tournament wrapped up with an awards reception featuring dinner, yard games, a silent auction, and live music, where tournament winners received hand-painted ukuleles made by Texas Children's patients. Speakers included Texas Children's Austin President, Dr. Jeffrey Shilt; Child Life Specialist, Leslie Wells; and Jeff Wood.
“As a pediatric hospital, Child Life Specialists are one of the meaningful ways we enhance care for our patients by improving their experience, decreasing hospital stays and reducing the need for medication. The generosity shown here today ensures we can continue providing this level of compassionate care for years to come,” said Texas Children’s Austin President, Dr. Jeffrey Shilt.
For more information about Texas Children’s Austin, visit www.texaschildrensaustin.org.
