When people talk about Dave “Hendu” Henderson they remember his easy laugh, his love of baseball, and above all, the way he showed up for his son Chase. Chase was born with Angelman syndrome, and Dave made sure his life was filled with joy, activity, and fun. From cheering on the Seattle Mariners—the team where Dave made his mark as a beloved player and later broadcaster—to riding around Alki Beach, Dave and Chase were inseparable.
After Dave’s passing in 2015, the Henderson family created the Always Having Fun Foundation to honor his memory. They knew that continuing his legacy meant fueling the research that could one day cure Angelman syndrome. That’s why the family chose to support the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST), an organization at the forefront of scientific discovery.
In July, the Always Having Fun Foundation brought back a tradition rooted in family history: golf. For years, Dave’s parents hosted a golf tournament in support of the Angelman community. When the Hendersons decided to revive the tradition, they named it Hendu’s Golf Classic, a tribute to Dave’s love of the game and the joy he shared with Chase.
This year, golfers, sponsors, and community members helped raise more than $60,000. After event expenses, the Foundation is proudly donating $19,000 directly to FAST research. The generosity of participants and supporters speaks volumes about the impact Dave made and the loyalty of those who still rally around his name.
“Post-COVID, it’s been harder to secure sponsors,” the Henderson family shared. “But the businesses and friends who continue to show up are our true blue supporters. Their loyalty warms our hearts and reminds us why we keep doing this. We’ll keep telling our story, building connections, and growing awareness because every step forward is part of the cure.”
For other families who might feel alone or overwhelmed, the Hendersons offer this encouragement: “Everyone has a purpose in life, and when you have an Angel connected to you, it changes your perspective. For me, it feels like a responsibility — to my family, my friends, and to continuing my dad’s legacy. Finding a cure feels like a championship we haven’t won yet. Just like the Mariners, we’re going to get there. And it’s going to be soon.”
FAST is deeply grateful to the Always Having Fun Foundation and to every golfer, sponsor, and friend who joined this year’s Classic. Together, they prove that love, legacy, and determination can turn a day on the course into a force for scientific progress.