As players teed it up at Woodstone Country Club the past several years in the Bo Tkach Foundation golf tournament, the nonprofit’s co-founder, Jim Tkach, was nowhere to be found.

In fact, golf was one of the furthest things from his mind as the former Palmerton and Northern Lehigh football coach battled serious health issues.

On a sun-soaked Wednesday afternoon, however, Tkach put all of that behind him as he rode along the 18-hole course catching up with old friends during the 16th annual tournament.

“I started out with prostate cancer, followed by a diagnosis of bone marrow cancer,” Tkach said of his illness. “I needed a bone marrow transplant. The side issue was that I had something called C. diff, an infection in your intestines, and had it six times.”

His battle included a grueling 80 days in the hospital and extensive physical therapy. “It was really tough. It got close a couple of times,” he admitted, reflecting on the moments when he wasn’t sure he would make it.

Despite the physical and emotional toll, Tkach’s determination never wavered. With the steadfast support of his wife Sandi, a 44-year nursing veteran, he fought his way back.

“A lot of prayers and support from people back home,” he said, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love that helped him through the darkest days.

Returning to the area this week was more than just a personal victory for Tkach, it was a celebration of life and community.

On Friday night, Tkach and the 1999 Northern Lehigh football team, which included his son Bo, he coached to a District 11 title, were honored at halftime of the Bulldogs game with Lehighton.

“Seeing so many people I haven’t seen … it’s been a real high,” Tkach said. “It’s amazing to be treated that way.”

The foundation, which was started to raise awareness for obsessive-compulsive disorder and other mental health issues after Bo took his own life in 2007, continued its vital work even during Tkach’s absence.

Money raised goes toward youth and high school programs, Aevidum training, guest speakers, sponsorship of special events, sponsorship of fundraisers for nonprofit organizations, benefits for less fortunate and terminally ill people; and scholarships to area students, among other things.

Its upcoming outreach efforts include plans to sponsor a large Aevidum seminar with 11 high schools and provide grants to ensure that students in need can afford treatment.

“The foundation’s still doing incredible work,” Tkach said. “We’re trying to expand and get the kids educated so they can take this out to help other people.”

The golf tournament, one of the foundation’s major fundraisers, played a crucial role in sustaining its initiatives. The event, in addition to the golf, dinner and awards, included a silent and live auction with a variety of sports memorabilia items available.

“It’s the people on board that make everything work,” he said, highlighting the dedication of the volunteers who have kept the foundation’s mission alive. “If I did just one thing right, it was putting the people in place that I did to make this a success.”