7-year-old Kyle Lograsso, Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts provide inspirational tales on overcoming cancer.
By Erica Goodman, USGA
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Kyle Lograsso, left, gives Robin Roberts a fist-bump shortly after being introduced Wednesday. (John Mummert/USGA) |
Bethlehem, Pa. – Something was missing from Saucon Valley Country Club on Wednesday afternoon.
Players and caddies filled the fairways of the Old Course. Volunteers held their assigned positions. The gallery, however, was a bit sparse. U.S. Women’s Open fans who had been wandering the course all morning had suddenly disappeared.
Yet in the distance, a roar could be heard. There was laughter. There was applause. And they were all cheering for the pint-sized golf virtuoso, Kyle Lograsso.
Spectators of all ages joined 7-year-old Lograsso and Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts to hear their inspiring stories of survival. Exchanging a fist-bump to start the clinic, the duo beamed with the positive spirit that only shines from those who have been granted a second chance at life.
Roberts, who has overcome breast cancer, shared her message of optimism. “When you have cancer, you make your mess your messenger,” said a smiling Roberts. “We are happy to be here. When you are a cancer survivor, you are happy to be anywhere.”
At age 2, Lograsso was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma, an eye cancer that attacks the retina.
“Through it all, he used the game of golf to keep his spirits up,” said his father, Jeff.
Through chemotherapy treatments and surgeries, including the removal of his left eye, he watched The Golf Channel and studied his favorite players. His fascination with the game was surprising as neither of his parents had previously played golf. The apt pupil now has a best drive of 179 yards and an accuracy that matches his idols. And when asked what his handicap is, he simply replies, “I only have one eye.”
Cancer free since 2004, Lograsso has shared his story of perseverance with a smile. His poise and ease in front of the crowd at Saucon Valley C.C. are a testament to a life spent demonstrating the remarkable end to his battle. The seasoned showman tipped his hat before sending his first drive down the fairway, made narrow by spectators flocking to catch a glimpse of this young talent.
For Lograsso, who will serve as Kids Tent Ambassador during this week, humor has proved the best medicine.
“He wasn’t just a survivor,” said his mother, Regina. “He pulled us through the experience.”
Kyle’s positive spirit and joking ways made him a hit among hospital staff, she said.
The boy wonder showed his jester spirit by sharing a repertoire of golf impersonations. Starting with LPGA Tour players, he followed a crisp drive with a slip of his club through his hand, emanating Paula Creamer. From Jim Furyk’s concentrated stare to Gary Player’s walk-through and even Charles Barkley’s twisted form, he spread his laughter cure throughout the audience.
Roberts herself fell victim to his tricks. The southpaw offered a bit of advice when the right-handed host asked how she could use his clubs. He grabbed his driver and, with a coy grin at Roberts, addressed the ball with the clubhead flipped upside down.
Following the clinic, Lograsso shared his unadorned “Kyle” signature on the hats and flags put before him by the snaking line of fans.
It was clear to see that as this young golfer continues to grow, so will his throng of supporters.
Erica Goodman is a third-year fellow in the USGA’s Grants and Fellowship Program located in Colorado Springs, Colo. E-mail her with questions or comments at egoodman@usga.org.
