06/17/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 06/17/2026 09:50
When Melissa and Adam Ritchie learned during a routine pregnancy checkup that their unborn son had a severe neural tube defect, their world changed instantly. They turned to Johns Hopkins Children's Center (JHCC) in Baltimore, Maryland, for care and hope.
Seventeen weeks later, Brayden was born with spina bifida and underwent multiple surgeries during his first year of life. Today, Brayden uses a wheelchair to get around, but thanks to the expert care and support he received at JHCC, he is a thriving, joyful little boy who continues to defy expectations and embrace life with enthusiasm.
JHCC relies on the generosity of donors and community partners to help provide children like Brayden with the specialized care they need. That's why the Tower Classic is proud to support the Children's Center and its mission of bringing hope and healing to families throughout our region.
Record-Breaking Support for Children and Families
Hosted by the TowerCares Foundation, the annual Tower Classic raised a record-breaking $100,600 for JHCC, the highest amount in the event's 43-year history. The milestone pushed the tournament's lifetime giving to more than $1.1 million in support of critically ill children and their families.
Brayden and his father Adam attended this year's event as honored guests.
"Stories like Brayden's are the reason the Tower Classic exists," said Rick Stafford, President of the TowerCares Foundation. "Having Adam with us to share his family's journey was a powerful reminder of the impact these donations can make. We are proud to be a longtime supporter of the Children's Center and grateful for the difference its physicians, nurses, and caregivers make for so many local children and families."
Community Support Makes the Difference
More than 120 golfers participated in this year's Tower Classic, held June 5 at Renditions Golf Course in Davidsonville, Maryland. The tournament was supported by more than 40 sponsors, including Allied Solutions and Tower Federal Credit Union.
The TowerCares Foundation extends its gratitude for the sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and donors whose generosity made this year's record-breaking event possible. For children like Brayden and countless others, the donations generated through the Tower Classic help make extraordinary care possible when families need it most.
"We are deeply grateful to the TowerCares Foundation for their continued support of Johns Hopkins Children's Center through the annual Tower Classic golf tournament," said Jen Doyle, Executive Director of Development for JHCC. "This generous gift will make a meaningful difference for the children and families we serve. We truly value TowerCares' commitment to our mission and investment in the health and well-being of children in Maryland."