Partially Paralyzed Golfer Walks 36 Holes in Summerville

Partially paralyzed golfer Fred Gutierrez has accomplished his  goal of walking and playing 36 holes of golf in one day March 5 at Summerville Country Club. 

The single-man event was called For the Glory of God Golf Marathon.

Gutierrez has a condition known as Left Hemiplegia from a gunshot wound to his head. For 16 years he has been paralyzed on the left side of his body from the top of his head to the bottom of his foot. 

Last Tuesday, the Moncks Corner man played a career low round of 85 in the opening 18 holes that included five pars and two birdies. The second round was not quite as good as the first, but he parred the final hole to shoot in the low 90’s as about 60 spectators welcomed him the final green.

Six months ago Gutierrez had difficulty walking nine holes, but playing on a weekly basis he gradually built his stamina so he could walk farther and farther on the course. A combination of modern and Eastern medecine is also credited with his recovery. Gutierrez received Botox injections and acupuncture. 

According to a press release on Gutierrez's behalf, the goal of the marathon golfing event was to give glory to God for his improvements and raise awareness about Botox and acupuncture as treatments. 

If individuals or corporations would like to donate money to support Gutierrez's efforts, he is asking that donations be made to Gifting Warriors, a Goose Creek nonprofit. To make a donation, you can visit their website at www.giftingwarriors.org.