Newton Citizen

Photo by Kristen Ralph

COVINGTON -- If you can play golf and help out Gracie Lou, where could you find a better deal? A benefit golf tournament is planned in her honor for the last Saturday in June at the Oaks Golf Course.

Gracie was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Systemic Arthritis at 14 months old and is currently taking eight medications daily, one of which is an injection. Two days a week she receives an injection of low-dose chemotherapy, according to her mother, Jessica Rowe.

"At first sight you would never know that anything is wrong with her until you see her knotted and swollen joints," Jessica Rowe said. "Until starting the daily injections almost two weeks ago, she was in constant pain. She calls her joints her 'bobos' and doesn't understand that it's not normal to be in pain like she is."

Because of the care Gracie requires, plus weekly therapy and doctors visits, Jessica Rowe is unable to work. She said although the family has health insurance, it does not even begin to cover all of Gracie's medical expenses.

The Oaks Golf Course is hosting the four-man Lauderdale tournament that will tee off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 26. The entry fee is $60 per player and all proceeds will go toward Gracie's medical expenses.

Anyone wishing to play in the tournament or make a donation is asked to call 706-819-9848 and ask for Duane or 678-372-8819 and ask for Jessica.

"God Bless, thank you all for your support and we hope to see you there," Jessica Rowe said.

Also, more information and updates on Gracie can be found on her Facebook page, "Gracie Lou's Crew."