Driving for a Cure: The Tom Cosenzi Legacy and the Fight Against Brain Cancer
(Published August 28,2025,10:41:44 AM EDT)
The fight against brain cancer is a relentless one,demanding innovative research,unwavering support,and a community united by hope. At the heart of this battle in Western Massachusetts lies the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, a beacon of fundraising and remembrance.This year, the 17th annual event, hosted by TommyCar Auto Group, will tee off on Monday, September 8th at the prestigious Twin Hills Contry Club in Longmeadow. But this tournament is far more than just a golf outing; it’s a powerful testament to a family’s enduring legacy and a critical funding source for cutting-edge brain cancer research.
The Genesis of a Movement: Remembering Tom Cosenzi
The tournament’s origins are deeply personal. It was founded in loving memory of Tom Cosenzi, a beloved figure in the Northampton community, who tragically lost his battle with glioblastoma – an aggressive form of brain cancer – in 2008. Glioblastoma remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat, with a median survival rate of just 15-18 months even with aggressive therapies. This harsh reality fueled Carla Cosenzi, Tom’s wife and co-owner of TommyCar Auto Group, to transform grief into action.
Did You No? Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) accounts for approximately 45% of all primary brain tumors. Recent studies, including those published in neuro-Oncology (July 2025), highlight the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment.
Carla Cosenzi’s vision wasn’t simply to host a one-time event. She aimed to create a lasting, impactful initiative that would consistently support the groundbreaking work of Dr. Patrick Wen and his team at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. And she has succeeded. Over the past sixteen years, the tournament has raised over $1.8 million – a figure that represents not just dollars, but countless hours of research, potential breakthroughs, and, most importantly, hope for patients and their families.
Beyond Fundraising: the Impact of Dana-Farber’s Research
Dr. Wen’s research at Dana-Farber focuses on innovative approaches to treating glioblastoma, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and the development of new diagnostic tools. The funds raised through the Tom Cosenzi tournament directly contribute to these efforts. I’ve personally witnessed the transformative power of this funding during my volunteer work with Dana-Farber’s neuro-oncology department. The ability to rapidly test new drug combinations and explore novel treatment pathways, thanks to philanthropic support, is crucial in a disease where time is of the essence.
Pro Tip: Even small donations can make a meaningful difference. Consider setting up a recurring monthly donation to provide consistent support for brain cancer research. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps accelerate progress.
Recent advancements, partially funded by initiatives like this, include the development of genetically engineered immune cells to target glioblastoma cells and the use of liquid biopsies to monitor treatment response in real-time. These are not just theoretical possibilities; they are actively being tested in clinical trials, offering a glimmer of hope to patients facing a devastating diagnosis.
The 2025 Tournament: Sponsors and Participation
This year’s tournament boasts strong sponsorship support,with Teph Seal as the presenting sponsor and General Contracting solutions as the platinum sponsor. Their commitment underscores the growing awareness and dedication to fighting brain cancer within the business community. But participation isn’t limited to corporate sponsors. The tournament welcomes golfers of all skill levels, as well as individuals who wish to contribute through donations or volunteer efforts.
As someone who has participated in the tournament for the past five years, I can attest to the incredible sense of camaraderie and purpose that permeates the event. It’s a day filled with amiable competition, heartfelt tributes to Tom Cosenzi, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Here’s a fast comparison of sponsorship levels and their benefits:
| Sponsorship Level | Investment | Benefits |
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