Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Bounds.
Hi Tom, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
1997, my 33-year-old wife was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I felt so helpless and out of control of the situation, as any husband does when he cannot “fix” what is happening to his wife. At the time, my daughter had just turned three, and the prospect of her not having a mom and of me having to raise her on my own was both sobering and frightening. I wanted to do something – anything – to help others in the same situation and give them hope. One thing I did have was friends. So, in 1998, I put together a group of golfers, and the first “Teed Off at Cancer” golf tournament was held. This group has grown to include friends, business associates, and supporters. What started as a small golf tournament has become one of the city’s most significant charity events. With the money that we raise, we are proud to support The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio, Methodist Children’s Hospital, and University Hospital. As our mission evolved, so did our name. Formerly Teed Off at Cancer, Hope Hits Harder aims to provide immediate hope and comfort to children battling cancer and their families. Cancer hits hard, but Hope Hits Harder.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My struggles were being a father and a caregiver to my wife, who was battling cancer for over 20 years, and at the same time running our foundation.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I started by buying toys by starting a non-profit with $200 and now grossing over $ 1 million annually. HHH has built a teen room and child life center and is providing funds to Ronald McDonald House to make 8 bedrooms at Children’s Hospital. In addition, it donated $1 million to the University Hospital for its new Child Life Center. HHH has one salaried employee.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Determination, caring, and vision for continuing support to our pediatric oncology
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hopehitsharder.com
