WHEN Captain of The Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club, Geoff Walsh, embarked on preparations for his Captains' Charity Golf Day while recovering in hospital from a triple bypass operation, little did he realise that a year later he would be handing over a record breaking sum to his chosen charity, Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA).

Driven by a desire to help people nationwide with Prader Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic disorder, suffered by Amelie, his three year-old granddaughter, Walsh spent a lot of his enforced hospitalisation period planning for the event, which took place at The Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club on 10th October. 

The event was a sell out with 120 golfers competing for some fabulous prizes before enjoying dinner and being entertained by former Wales Rugby Union Captain and BBC rugby commentator Eddie Butler and his enjoyable reminiscence of life (and near death!) on the rugby field at Pontypool Park. 

The auction that followed raised a huge sum thanks to the generosity of the many individuals, businesses and sports personalities who donated a stunning collection of auction lots.

Exactly a year to the day since his release from hospital on 16th December, Walsh travelled with his wife, Karen, to the headquarters of PWSA(UK) in Derby to hand over a cheque for £9,500 to chief executive, Susan Passmore.

Passmore explained that PWS is a rare and complex genetic disorder, which is present from birth and continues throughout life. Individuals with PWS struggle with emotional, cognitive, behavioural and social issues. They also develop an untreatable, insatiable appetite resulting in almost constant feelings of hunger. Strict dietary control is necessary to avoid life-threatening complications.

There is currently no cure for PWS although ongoing research offers hope for the development of more effective treatments and perhaps an eventual cure.  PWSA (UK) exists to improve the lives of all people with PWS and all who are affected or work with them.

Walsh expressed his sincere gratitude to The Rolls staff and those members of the club, who had contributed to making the event so successful, including the small number of members who took part in the day, along with the myriad of guests, who gave up their time to participate. 

He said it was a humbling experience to feel the generosity of so many friends, fellow golfers, business contacts and local businesses, without whom this huge charity donation would not have been possible.