personal fundraiser
Braelyn Schut
A MESSAGE FROM BRAELYN’S PARENTS
Our names are Cody and Nicole Schut, and we are the proud parents of our incredible daughter, Braelyn Schut, who has been diagnosed with Usher Syndrome Type 2A.
Usher Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that impacts both hearing and vision and is currently without a cure. For Braelyn, this means she lives with moderate to severe permanent hearing loss and may experience progressive vision loss as she grows older. Despite these challenges, Braelyn continues to inspire us with her resilience and determination every day.
Watch the video above created by Braelyn’s family to learn more about Usher syndrome and Braelyn’s story!
To know Braelyn is to love her as she lights up any room with her sweet vibrant personality. She loves to sing, dance, and bring joy to those around her with her contagious energy and smile. Braelyn is both fierce and feisty—qualities we know will empower her as she grows and becomes her own advocate someday. Braelyn is surrounded by an incredible support system that encourages her to thrive, helps her navigate this journey with confidence, and ensures she has every opportunity to succeed.
We are reaching out to ask for your support as we raise funds to help Braelyn and others like her who are living with Usher Syndrome. The funds will directly support critical research efforts, including a groundbreaking initiative called the Pipeline for Usher Syndrome Research (PUSH). PUSH is the largest collaborative research project under one academic institution, dedicated to finding effective therapies, treatments, and ultimately a cure for multiple forms of Usher Syndrome.
Every contribution—no matter the size—has the power to make a difference. Whether through a financial donation, spreading awareness, or simply sharing our story, you are helping create hope for Braelyn and those that are facing similar challenges.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your love, generosity, and support. Together, we can build a brighter future for Braelyn and so many others. Thank you for taking the time to hear our story and getting to know Braelyn!
2025 Grand Rapids Open – Golf for a Cure
This year, Braelyn’s Parents, Nicole and Cody, are hosting their 14th annual Grand Rapids Open Golf fundraiser. All of the funds raised from this tournament will go towards research for Usher syndrome Type 2A. Please see details below if you are interested in participating in this year’s tournament.
What: 4-Person Golf Scramble
- Register by emailing your 4-person team & contact info to [email protected]
- Registration limited to first 144 golfers – don’t wait to sign up!
- Like the “Grand Rapids Open” Facebook page to stay informed
When: Saturday, June 7 – 8:30am shotgun start
Where: Gleneagle Golf Club – (6150 14th Ave. Hudsonville)
Contests: Longest Drive, Longest Putt, Closest-to-pin, Skins & More (all cash prizes)
Prize Payouts (subject to change):
- 1st Place – $400
- 5th Place – $200
- 10th Place – $200
- 15th Place – $200
- 20th Place – $200
- 25th Place – 4 rounds of golf to Gleneagle
Cost: $100 per player or $400 per team – Prepaid to Nicole by 5/24/25
Venmo: @NicoleSchut (last 4 digits of phone #9081)
Checks: Email Nicole at [email protected] for address
Potential Sponsors: Please contact Cody or Nicole if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor. All donations & sponsorships will go directly to The Usher Syndrome Society, a 501 ©(3) non-profit organization, to directly fund critical medical research in search of a cure! Donation receipts will be provided to all sponsors.