By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Golf tournament raises $281,881 to fight drug overdose deaths
Medical Center Open benefits Think About It Campaign
1002GOLF 0001
Greg Lee tallies scores during the Medical Center Open Thursday at Chicopee Woods Golf Course in Gainesville. The event benefitted the Medical Association of Georgia Foundation’s "Think About It" Campaign. - photo by Erin O. Smith

A record was set on the golf course Thursday, but it wasn’t the lowest score or a hole-in-one.

The Medical Center Open Golf Tournament raised $281,881, the largest amount in its 24 years. The money raised this year will benefit the Medical Association of Georgia Foundation’s “Think About It” Campaign, with 100 percent of proceeds going toward the campaign’s Project Deaths Avoided by Naloxone. Naloxone is a medication that can prevent overdose deaths from heroin and prescription painkillers.

The rate of heroin-related overdose deaths in the U.S. quadrupled between 2002 and 2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The increase in deaths from opioid overdose is a disturbing trend,” said Jody Cooley, co-chairman of the tournament, in a news release. “‘Think About It’ will benefit communities throughout Northeast Georgia by equipping first responders with the tools and training to reverse an opioid overdose in minutes, saving lives on the front line. Giving people from all walks of life a second chance.”

The association has already trained and equipped Hall County Sheriff’s Office personnel to use the medication.

The golf tournament was held at Chicopee Woods Golf Course, drawing more than 200 players and 100 volunteers.