2024 Boot & shoot BANQUET & SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT
Midland, TX | May 5-6, 2025
Sky High for Kids launched Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with their annual Midland Boot & Shoot event, raising over $1 million and honoring the strength of Cancer Warriors from West Texas like Luis, Marlee, Trevor, Lexand, and Tristan.
To kickoff Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Sky High for Kids returned to Midland, Texas, for the highly anticipated Midland Boot & Shoot, held on September 5-6. The event raised an outstanding $1,008,731.26 over two days, marking a significant milestone for the organization and continuing the fight against Childhood Cancer with the support of the Midland community.
The festivities began on the evening of September 5 at the Bush Convention Center, where guests gathered in their finest western attire for a memorable evening in support of the Sky High mission. The night was filled with excitement as attendees enjoyed a lively cocktail hour before sitting down to a delicious dinner. VIP Guests were treated to a special pre-program meet and greet with the night’s performer, Casey Donahew. The event was emceed by Taylor Sass, who guided the evening’s program, which included heartfelt speeches and powerful moments that underscored the impact of Sky High for Kids on children and families battling Childhood Cancer.
Sky High for Kids was honored to have Ross Roach as the Guest of Honor. Ross has been a steadfast supporter of Sky High’s mission, going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of Cancer Warriors. His contributions continue to inspire the community and bring hope to those in need.
Loren Hardy, was presented with Sky High’s Heart of Golf award, recognizing her exceptional dedication to the organization and its mission. She went above and beyond to lead the charge on an incredible silent auction. Sky High would not run without it’s dedicated volunteers like Loren.
The evening’s live auction, skillfully conducted by CEO and Founder Brittany Hebert Franklin, provided guests with the opportunity to bid on exclusive experiences, raising both funds and excitement for Sky High’s critical initiatives. Among the highlight moments were the emotional stories of Cancer Warriors Luis and Marlee, shared through a video premiered at the event. The video captured their inspiring journeys, reminding everyone of the strength and resilience of children battling cancer.
Luis, a courageous 18-year-old from Odessa, TX, was featured in the video. Luis, known as “SweetLou,” was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia in March 2022, just as he was beginning his freshman year at Permian High School. Despite being rushed to MD Anderson for urgent treatment, Luis and his family spent the next year in Houston, where he faced countless challenges, including severe side effects from chemotherapy, seizures, blood clots, and even COVID-19. Through it all, Luis maintained a positive mindset and refused to let cancer defeat him. Today, he is in his “maintenance phase” of treatment and remains a symbol of strength and perseverance. His story was a powerful reminder of the courage and determination shown by all Cancer Warriors. The most unforgettable moment of the night was when Cancer Warrior, Luis, rang the bell to signify the end of his treatment—a symbol of hope and victory.
The evening was capped off with a special performance by country music star Casey Donahew adding a perfect ending to a memorable evening, leaving all attendees with a sense of joy and inspiration as they reflected on the impact of the night’s fundraising efforts.
The excitement continued the following day at Jake’s Clays with the Sporting Clay Tournament. Participants, split into morning and afternoon flights, competed in a friendly and fun-filled event. One of the standout moments was when Cancer Warrior, Trevor, participated in the shoot and won the HOA Junior award.
Led by Cancer Warrior, Marlee, a touching balloon release honored the brave Sky High Angels, remembering the young lives lost to cancer and celebrating the hope that Sky High for Kids continues to bring to families facing this devastating disease. The event also featured record-breaking fundraising efforts through hair donations, with over $20,000 raised.
This year’s event, made possible by the unwavering support of Title Sponsor Texas Pacific Land and Event Chairs Errin Williams and Nic Tallant, marked the first time since pre-pandemic that Sky High for Kids surpassed the $1 million mark. “The compassion and commitment exhibited by the Midland community continue to make a transformative impact on the lives of countless children and families,” said Brittany Franklin. “Together, we are bringing hope to those who need it most.” Sky High for Kids is profoundly grateful for the generosity and support of everyone involved in the Midland Boot & Shoot, and we look forward to continuing our work together to make a lasting difference in the lives of Cancer Warriors everywhere.