Four years ago, best friends Darren Miller and Ian Isch decided to do something. Dan Miller, Darren Miller’s father, has been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease since 1990, and according to Darren, it was time to finally do something to raise awareness and money with hopes in finding a cure for the insidious disease.
Darren Miller and Isch have been playing golf together since they were 10 years old. So hosting an open to raise funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which is a foundation dedicated to eliminating Parkinson’s Disease.
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that causes normal bodily functions like breathing and moving to deteriorate. There is currently no cure for the disease.
Every year since 2010, Darren Miller and Isch have held the Dan Miller Open at Pebble Creek Golf Club in Lexington. The entry fee is $260 per team, and almost every dollar goes directly to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
“Our goal is to raise$ 5,000 every year,” said Darren Miller.
The shotgun style Dan Miller Open attracted 72 players this year, which equates to 18 teams. The winners of Saturday’s game either receive a $1,000 shed, donated from Sam’s Club or a pair of tickets to a Cleveland Browns’ game.
Dan Miller, 63, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 1990, just before he wanted to run for sheriff’s position in Lexington. He retired from the force in 2000 as Captain. Shortly after retiring, he had brain surgery to reduce his tremors.
“Dan was like a second dad for me growing up,” said Isch. “I was over at their house like everyday when I was younger. Playing golf to raise money was the only thing we really knew how to do for him,” he added.
“Seeing the support that my dad has is always what I enjoy most about the day. He has had such a positive impact in people’s lives over the years, it’s amazing to see his influence,” said Darren Miller.
Isch and Darren Miller expect to have raised over $15,000 after this year’s Dan Miller Open. They hope to continue hosting the open at Pebble Creek Golf Course in the future.
“My favorite part of the day is seeing Dan’s face when we have the awards ceremony. He’s overwhelmed by all the support,” said Isch.
For more information on the Michael J. Fox Foundation or to know how to donate to the cause, visit their website. For more information on Pebble Creek Golf Course, visit their website or call 419-884-3434.
