On April 5, 2025, Lt. Anthony White’s 14-year-old son, Braylon, received a heart transplant at Arthur Blank Children’s Hospital in Atlanta after a grueling seven-year battle with severe heart complications. The family’s journey has been filled with trials, but there is hope on the horizon.
To support Braylon’s recovery and to ease the financial strain on his parents during this challenging time, the deputies of the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office have come together to host The Braylon Strong Benefit Basketball Tournament on April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. This event not only aims to raise funds for the White family but also encourages a sense of community, inviting local police officers, sheriff officers, firefighters, and 911 operators locally and from surrounding counties to form teams and participate. With a registration deadline of April 18, 2025, and a participation fee of $150 per team, plus a spectator admission fee of $5, the event promises to be a heartwarming gathering for a worthy cause.
The basketball tournament will be held at the Coffee County-George Washington Carver Freshman Campus, where camaraderie and competition will go hand in hand. The funds raised will be directed entirely to the White family, ensuring that they can focus on Braylon’s recovery without the looming burden of financial stress.
Sheriff Fred Cole highlights the importance of community in times of need, stating, “We are much like a family, and when one of us is in need, the rest of us step up and fill that need. Braylon’s second chance at life is dear to us, and we want to do everything we can to ensure the financial burden isn’t felt by our brother.” A trophy will be awarded to the winning team, adding a touch of friendly competition to an already inspiring event. For more information or to contribute, please reach out to Tony Ward at 912-381-2189 or Summer Crockett at 912-318-6935, and for donations, call 912-384-4227 or stop by First National Bank of Coffee County.