Connective Issues Winter 2026

eye surgeries. The family turned to the Marfan Foundation for guidance, information, and support. “The Foundation has been so supportive of just being there for us and introducing us to di ff erent people, as well as helping with a road map on this journey,” Neil said. “The information highway the Foundation provides has been a great resource for us to help answer many questions.” After Townes’ diagnosis, the family slowed down—for the better. “I think we have a newfound focus on quality family time, not sweating the small stu ff , and enjoying the little things more,” explained Neil. “This was an adjustment for our family in many ways, but mainly in attitude. We don’t see it as a negative or roadblock; we just took a turn down a di ff erent road.”

 Borracho Pescador board members hold the total funds raised during the 2025 tournament

A Surprise for the Family In 2023, the BP board surprised Neil during the tournament with a powerful announcement: 10% of all funds raised, every year moving forward, would be donated to the Marfan Foundation in Townes’ honor. “It was emotional,” Neil said. “These guys are my closest friends. To see them show up for my family like that…it meant everything.” That commitment translated into extraordinary impact. Two years in a row, BP has raised approximately $330,000 annually, meaning tens of thousands of dollars now support the Marfan Foundation’s mission to help more people Know. Connect. Thrive. “Maybe I’m exactly where I’m meant to be,” Neil said of balancing life and career, which is also in the fishing industry, with BP’s mission. “If our love of fishing can help families, support research, and raise awareness, well, that’s something special.” Looking Ahead BP organizers hope to keep expanding the tournament’s reach, raising more each year, and continuing to change lives. The Turner family also dreams of introducing more kids with Marfan syndrome to the joy of fly fishing, a shared passion that brings them together. And as for Townes? His parents’ wish is simple: “We want him to find what he is passionate about in his life and to be happy. What else could a parent ask for?” Get Involved To learn more about next year’s tournament, visit borrachopescador.org or follow @borrachopescador on Instagram. Anyone interested in spon soring, participating, or supporting the event is welcome.

 Meredith Mischner, Development Director for the Marfan Foundation, with Neil at the tournament

“I could not be more proud of how brave and tough my son has been at such a young age all while remaining positive and happy. He inspires us.” ~Neil

 Neil and Townes out on the water

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