COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Some of the best young golfers in the world teed off at Ohio State’s Scarlet Course this week, but it wasn’t a pro who stole the spotlight. Instead, all eyes were on 18-year-old Natalie Gray from Powell, a Liberty High School student who’s been courageously battling brain cancer for years.
Natalie’s story is one of strength and service. Diagnosed with a brain tumor at just 13, she has endured surgeries, treatments, and countless hospital visits. But rather than let cancer define her, Natalie chose to fight for others.
Through the Natalie Gray Foundation, she’s already helped raise more than $400,000 to support pediatric brain cancer research.
This week, her efforts were celebrated at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship, where she was honored before the tournament and awarded a $10,000 scholarship. Natalie also shared her story during an appearance on Good Day Columbus.
Her impact reaches far beyond the golf course. On Friday, Natalie traveled to Washington, D.C., where she led a team of young cancer patients on Capitol Hill, walking the halls of Congress and urging lawmakers to take action, while sharing their stories firsthand.
Bright, determined, and focused on making a difference, Natalie indicates her mission is bigger than her own journey. For her, the fight is about ensuring no child has to face cancer alone.