Rusty Holzer Reflects about Polo for a Purpose

8-29-24 Wellington – Rusty Holzer stated that “It is no secret that I love sports and horse riding. When an organization manages to combine charity with an appreciation for these beloved activities, I am truly blown away.” In February, Polo for Life, Inc. hosted its 8^th annual Polo for a Purpose special event. The unique organization was founded by Brandon Phillips, who is both a pediatric cancer survivor and a professional equestrian. Rusty Holzer reflected that “this year’s happening featured an exciting polo match and an Indian-themed reception, which was called ‘A Passage to India’.”

Rusty Holzer continued to mention that “there was a special cocktail reception, great music, a live performance from the Wellington High School marching band, and an exhilarating polo match. It brought the community together in both a fun and meaningful way.” At age 14, Phillips was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and received a prognosis of six weeks to live. He endured five months of grueling chemotherapy treatments, during which he never lost his spirit nor accepted death as an option. He beat the odds and went into remission. Phillips combined his passion for polo with a desire to help families who face the dreadful challenge of surviving childhood cancers.

PJ Rizvi has been an event co-chair for the past seven years and has been involved with Polo for Life since the beginning. Under her leadership, the event grows exponentially every year. Rizvi lost her sister, Penny, to leukemia. She now works tirelessly to help find a cure for blood cancers and to help families experiencing the same challenge as hers. Rizvi explained, “All the money in the world could not save my sister, but maybe the money we raise at this event might prevent another family from the tragedy and heartache we suffered.” Proceeds from the special Polo for a Purpose event went directly to families in South Florida struggling with pediatric cancer diagnoses.

Update: Upcoming Event –
Polo For Life, Polo For A Purpose
September 14, 2024
Meadowbrook Polo Club New York 

The event’s charity partner will be the Child Life Services Program
at Stony Brook Cancer Center in New York.
Support the cause Polo For Pupose
An event to benefit pediatric cancer patients and their families through the Child Life Services Program at Stony Brook Cancer Center.

By Rusty Holzer