AdventHealth Sebring Foundation Golf Tournament Raises Funds for Wellness Center

AdventHealth Sebring Celebrity Golf Tournament Putting Practice

The AdventHealth Sebring Foundation event was hosted by retired MLB player Thomas “Flash” Gordon, who is also chair of the wellness center campaign.

More than 30 current and retired MLB, NHL and NFL players hit the links with community leaders and business partners to raise money for the AdventHealth Sebring Health and Wellness Center on Monday at the Sun N Lake Golf Club.

The AdventHealth Sebring Foundation event was hosted by retired MLB player Thomas “Flash” Gordon, who is also chair of the wellness center campaign.

“What a wonderful turnout. I am thrilled that everyone came together to support our Health and Wellness Center,’’ Gordon said. “This Wellness Center will give people the tools they need to learn more about living a healthier lifestyle. If you ask any of the players here, they will tell you that your health is one of the most important things you have and sometimes you have to have some help in staying healthy. This community has shown me so much love over the years, this is

Christen Johnson, vice president and administrator of AdventHealth Wauchula, said the foundation has raised about $2.6 million of the $5 million needed for the 21,000-square-foot wellness center which will be located on the AdventHealth Sebring campus. She said the Foundation is on track to reach the $3 million mark by the end of the year. She added that the Foundation will need to raise $4 million before construction can begin.

AdventHealth Sebring President and CEO Jason Dunkel said he was impressed by the number of celebrities who came from all over the country to help support and raise money for the Health and Wellness Center.

“Their support of our community is just overwhelming,’’ Dunkel said. “Promoting health and wellness is a pivotal point in our whole person care of not just treating the body, but the mind and spirit as well. We have been very blessed to have the support of our local businesses and community members as we work towards our goal.’’

After the rounds of golf, players were regaled with stories from the careers of Gordon, fellow retired MLB player Jim Rice and other athletes. The baseball greats also stressed the importance of a healthy lifestyle and staying active.