David's Journey

One of Woodland's true treasures, Golf Course Superintendent David Riedman, is facing the challenge of his life.

David’s fight started in September, when he was working on the course. Severe pain in his left arm led him to, reluctantly, see a doctor.  The initial diagnosis was a blood clot, which is a serious problem on its own, but further tests also revealed tumors in David's lung and brain.  The diagnosis is Stage IV NSCLC.

Immediately, David began an aggressive treatment program with a team of doctors at St. Vincent Hospital.  First step: three radiation treatments in the first week, to attack the tumors in his brain.  The next week, he started chemotherapy for the tumors in his lung.  His regime included three different chemotherapy agents given every three weeks, over the course of 9 weeks.

An MRI at the end of the initial treatments showed great progress in the brain tumors; doctors believe the tumors are small enough that they need no further treatment.  A PET scan on the tumors in his lung were also reacting very favorably.  He is now going through additional treatments, followed by tests, to see how the tumors continue to respond.

Although complete remission from this type of cancer is rare, David is prepared to manage the disease such that he can enjoy life to its fullest.  It will surprise no one, who knows David, that even during the most difficult side effects of his ongoing treatment, he is often at the club working on the course.

Just as he is determined to keep the course in top shape, he is also determined to beat this.    He continues to work when he is able and keep a somewhat regular schedule.  Some days are better than others, but his outlook remains extremely positive and optimistic.

As you can imagine, a diagnosis like this is hard to receive, and the costs associated with it are exorbitant.  David is getting the best treatment available, and he continues to be an important part of the Woodland family.  This year will be his 21st season at Woodland! 

Many people have asked what they could do to help David and Karen along this journey.  We have set up this GoFundMe page where people can contribute to help offset some of the out-of-pocket expenses the family has endured over the last 6 months.  Our goal is to help cover his out of pocket deductibles for calendar years 2019 and 2020.


If you can give, thank you. 

We will keep you updated on his progress along the way. 

Barry Midkiff on behalf of The Board of Directors