TOKC's 19th Annual Toga Party Fundraiser

It's that time again! It's time to dust off your golf clubs, find your favorite toga, and get ready to celebrate, compete, and make a difference at the 19th Annual James A. Ragan Triumph Scramble and Toga Party! What began years ago as a gathering of friends determined to stand up to childhood cancer has grown into a tradition filled with laughter, generosity, and life-changing impact. And this year promises to be our most memorable yet!

Every swing, every bid, every ticket, and every cheer from our supporters continues to fuel meaningful progress in the fight against childhood cancer. Because of you, critical research and treatment advancements are being made at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children's Hospital. These partnerships are not just names on a banner. They represent real researchers, doctors, nurses, and children whose futures are being reshaped by the hope you create. Because of you, kids with cancer and their families receive much needed respite and support during their most difficult times through our Rally for Kids Program. Because of you, TOKCs' DoThatOneThing! Council members continue to bring Hope and Joy to the daily lives of kids with cancer through various outreach activities at Driscoll Children's Hospital, MD Anderson, Oschner Medical Center, the Ronald McDonald House, and, most recently, Dell Children's Hospital.

A cherished part of this weekend is the honoring of our newest James' Wingman, a courageous young warrior
who reminds us why we gather, why we give, and why we keep pushing forward. The Wingman tradition is a powerful symbol of resilience, friendship, and determination. It grounds the celebration in purpose and shines a light on the incredible strength of children and families facing childhood cancer with bravery and grace. Their stories inspire us all to keep Doing That One Thing to make a difference.

This year, we are also especially honored to recognize Gloria Hicks for her extraordinary kindness, commitment, and lasting impact across our community and our state, particularly for children with cancer. Since TOKC's inception, Gloria has served as an irreplaceable volunteer at fundraisers, bringing unmatched enthusiasm and heart to every event. With her deep community connections, she has inspired local businesses and individuals to contribute and to donate incredible auction items to raise money for innovative childhood cancer research, and to give of their time and resources to bring joy to the daily lives of kids with cancer. Gloria has a remarkable ability to motivate people, to turn generosity into action, and to make everyone feel like they are a part of something meaningful. Her spirit of service lives in every child helped and every breakthrough made possible. While Gloria Hicks traditionally prefers to remain out of the spotlight, we are excited and humbled to have this opportunity to honor and celebrate her incredible work for the youth in our community.

So, whether you come for the golf, the music, the dancing, the silent auction, or simply the joy of being surrounded by people who care, know that your involvement matters. This event is more than a party. It is a celebration of resilience, a tribute to those who give selflessly, an embrace of our Wingman, and a powerful reminder that together we can change outcomes for children and families facing the unimaginable.

Bring your friends. Wear your toga (or come just as you are because fun is guaranteed!). Bid boldly, laugh loudly, and celebrate generously. Most importantly, join us in honoring Gloria Hicks, our James' Wingmen, and the incredible community that continues to stand shoulder to shoulder in the fight against pediatric cancer.
                                    
                                                                                                                                        Mecklin V. Ragan, MD