Med students raise more than $4,700 as fellow student battles leukemia

Campbell medical students led the way in raising more than $4,700 to help a fellow student diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia.

Student Dr. Owen Kurtz was diagnosed in October 2024, during the second block of medical school.

"He has been fighting his cancer since and has a tremendous response to treatment, but is still facing many battles, including paying for his therapy and financial loans," said John DiCristo, a second-year med student and president of the Student Government Association.
Kurtz has since returned home to Florida to continue treatment.

"Seeing everyone come together in support of Owen and his family was truly inspiring. Your kindness and sportsmanship made the day unforgettable," DiCristo said.
In March of 2025, the group of students began planning the golf event, held at Keith Hills. The students included DiCristo and Jackson Wheatley of the SGA and Student Osteopathic Medical Association president Tori Kowalski, as well as Davis Roberts, Andrew Pressley and Jarret Novak.

DiCristo also thanked sponsors PGA Superstore, Creek Coffee, Chisdaddy Golf, Pooches, Keith Hills Golf Course and the Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Tournament winners were:
First-place team - Cameron Javdan, Samantha Wegner, Cameron Hollingsworth and Daniel Barbare
Longest drive - Cameron Javdan
Closest to the pin and putting contest - Andy Myers

"This incredible outcome would not have been possible without each player, volunteer, and sponsor who contributed their time, resources and enthusiasm," DiCristo said.

The fundraiser remains open and is available at Charity Golf Tournament.

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