Altoona families and friends are coming together Saturday, Sept. 19, for a charitable mini‑golf tournament and silent auction dubbed “Tough Like Teagan.” The event, held at Terrace Hills Golf Course from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., aims to raise funds for the medical care of 5‑month‑old Teagan Johnson, a Pleasant Hill infant born with junctional epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that makes skin extremely fragile and prone to blisters.
What is junctional epidermolysis bullosa?
Junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB) is a hereditary disorder that affects the proteins that hold the layers of skin together. Even minor friction can cause painful blisters and open wounds, requiring ongoing wound care, specialized dressings, and frequent doctor visits. Families often face high medical bills and travel expenses to access the limited number of specialists who treat the condition.
Event details and how to help
Each ticket to the “Tough Like Teagan” fundraiser includes one round of mini‑golf, a beverage of choice, and dinner. Attendees can also bid on items donated for the silent auction, ranging from local artwork to gift certificates from area businesses. All proceeds will go directly toward offsetting Teagan’s medical expenses, covering travel to specialty clinics, and providing additional support for her family throughout her treatment journey.
Tickets can be purchased online via the event’s website. Organizers encourage community members to spread the word, volunteer at the venue, or donate items for the auction. “Our goal is to rally the Altoona community around Teagan and show her family that they are not alone in this fight,” said event coordinator Sarah Miller, a longtime resident and mother of three.
Why local support matters
For families dealing with rare diseases, community assistance can make a profound difference. The costs associated with JEB often exceed what insurance will cover, and travel to the nearest pediatric dermatology center can be a financial strain. By gathering locally, Altoona residents are not only raising essential funds but also offering emotional encouragement to a family navigating a challenging medical landscape.
Local businesses have already stepped up, donating auction items and offering sponsorships. The event reflects the strong family‑centric values that define Altoona, where neighbors routinely support one another in times of need.
Looking ahead
Organizers hope the fundraiser will inspire similar community‑driven efforts across Iowa to aid families confronting rare medical conditions. “When we come together, we demonstrate the power of faith, family, and liberty—principles that guide our community every day,” Miller added.
For more information, ticket purchases, or to volunteer, visit the event page at www.toughliketeagan.org.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
