Cancer is a deeply personal journey, and for our family, it became real the day our daughter, Syd, was diagnosed with brain cancer at just 20 years old. Nothing prepares you for that moment. Nothing prepares you for the surgeries, the radiation, the chemotherapy, or the fear that comes with each step.
But from the very beginning, we were carried — by God, by prayer, by the people He placed around us.
We were led to UW–Madison’s Carbone Cancer Center, where cutting‑edge technology meets groundbreaking research. And we were surrounded by some of the most gifted physicians in the country: Dr. Ahmed, Dr. Howard, Dr. Bhatia, and their incredible teams. They are extraordinary humans — compassionate, brilliant, and unwavering in their mission. They used their God‑given gifts to guide Syd through two brain surgeries (one awake), 18 days of full‑brain radiation, and a full year of chemotherapy.
None of it was easy. But we were never alone.
There were prayers whispered over hospital beds.
Songs that became anchors on the hardest days.
Encouraging words from people who showed up at just the right moment.
A peace that didn’t make sense except that it came from God.
Our story could have been so different. We know that. And we are profoundly grateful for the grace that carried us, the hands that healed, and the hope that never left.
Believing in Breakthrough
The researchers at UW–Madison are working tirelessly toward the breakthrough that will finally tame this disease. We believe they are close. We believe the answer could come from right here, in our own backyard. And we believe God is working through these brilliant minds to bring healing to families like ours.
There are already a couple of very promising studies happening right now at UW-Madison that are studying the effectiveness of vaccines on slowing and fighting brain cancer.
They need our help to keep going.
The Power of One Dollar
Imagine if one million people gave just $1.
One dollar — something almost anyone can spare.
One dollar — multiplied by a million hearts.
Mar 22, 2027
Distance — Donations for Sydney Fecht UW Neuro-Oncology Golf Tournament
Type — Running
00:00
$0.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for March in Madison.
Learn more about the host city, Madison.
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is situated on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. As the anchor of the Greater Madison Area, it is home to the University of Wisconsin — Madison, one of the premier universities in the United States. It is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and academic excellence. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the city's many museums and art galleries. The city is also known for its diverse and delicious food options.
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location_on Madison, Wisconsin, US
calendar_today Apr 18, 2026
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