Helicopter drops golf balls from sky to help families fighting cancer

A helicopter dropped hundreds of golf balls from the sky to help families fighting cancer on Saturday during the 4 th Annual Halos and Tiaras Golf Tournament in Holtville.

Marcy Bingham, Halos & Tiaras President, said, “We sell 300 golf balls for a $100 donation. All the money goes to our foundation which helps kids in Imperial Valley that are stricken with cancer.”

The event drew 84, which made up 21 teams.

“The person with the number that goes in the hole or nearest to the hole wins $10,000,” Bingham said.

She said families need all they help they can get.

“We currently have over 30 children that are going through treatment or after-treatment care,” Bingham said.

Julie Chavez, H&T Treasurer, said, “It’s so unfair to see them so young and innocent and suffering, and already having to battle such a horrible disease.”

Sonia Flores Hurtado, H&T Secretary, said, “It’s heartbreaking to imagine what they’re going through. I can’t imagine having your child diagnosed or dealing with any of that.

Last year they raised over $25,000 to help with medical expenses.

On Saturday, the winning ball belonged to Robin Iten, bought in her name by her husband. She helped start Halo’s & Tiaras several years ago. She passed away last year. The ball came just within two or three inches from falling into the hole. Organizers said this was Iten’s way of saying she was still around supporting the event she so much loved.