Six years ago on October 1, baby Chase Edward Warren was born. Although he passed away at the tender age of just 10 months old from Gaucher Type 2, a rare neurological condition, Chase’s memory lives on through his family and the ChaseN’Tailz Fishing Tournament.
This year, a record $100,000 was raised in the events leading up to and during the fifth annual ChazeN’Tailz tournament, which took place Sept. 8 in Jupiter, Florida. An astounding 165 boats competed – making it the most popular year yet for the charity tournament.
Because of the resounding success this year, Summer and Jay Warren, Chase’s parents, said the Foundation was able to directly support four very needy families with children suffering from rare illnesses.
Additionally, Summer said the couple plans to add an option on the Foundation’s Web site where needy families with sick children can directly apply for grants. She said the grant application is slated to go live in three weeks – making it possible for families to receive help without waiting until after the annual tournament.
“This is huge,” said Summer. “It is because of people and companies like TACO Marine that believe in us and our mission.”
This year, TACO President Jon Kushner arranged for the marine manufacturing company to donate a pair of Grand Slam Outrigger Mounts and Tele-Outrigger Poles, a rigging kit, filet table and poly tumbler holders to the ChaseN’Tailz silent auction, which took place during the tournament festivities.
Summer and Jay understand all too well the physical, mental and emotional toll of having a sick child. On top of that, the financial strain to pay for costly medical treatment and other services can be overwhelming.
“These families are going through the hardest times of their lives,” said Summer. “It can be a very lonely time. They can now be assured that they are not alone and [that] ChaseN’Tailz is here to help.”
In addition to directly supporting families, ChaseN’Tailz also supports the Quantum House, which is located on the campus of St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Quantum House provides a safe haven for families to stay whose children are receiving treatment for serious medical conditions. ChaseN’Tailz has helped support the Quantum House since the tournament’s inception in 2013.
ChaseN’Tailz also helps support the Live Like Jack Foundation, which promotes drowning awareness and water safety in memory of Jake Morrison, who passed away in a drowning accident in 2013.
“Oct 1st, my son Chase would have been 6 years old,” said Summer. “As much as I wish he was here, I cannot think of a better way to honor him than to present these families with donation checks.”
To learn more about ChaseN’Tailz and to donate, visit chasentailz.com.
