I’ve never been prouder to call Charlie Rymer a friend and ambassador of the sport.

The former U.S. Junior Amateur champion, PGA Tour pro, golf commentator and mayor emeritus of Myrtle Beach Tweeted about his brush with death as caused by COVID-19. The courage and heart to both battle back and share his story is something to behold. And a huge thank you to all who cared for him, especially wife Carol who was already destined for sainthood pre-pandemic (RN).

Charlie’s story:

I’ve battled COVID-19 for the last 10 days. It’s been scary. Very scary. Thanks to the heroes @tidelandshealth for putting your health at risk to treat patients like me. Because of you I’m headed home today to be with my family. May God bless you!

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

And big thanks to my friends and family for all the texts, thoughts, and prayers. I’ve been alone in the hospital, but I’ve never FELT alone. Love you all!!!!

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

People are asking what Covid-19 is like. It must be different for everyone. I had fever up to 104.7. Chills and sweats. The scary part is the difficulty breathing, coughing, and lung spasms that follow the coughing. The shortness of breath makes you think it’s the end.

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

When your blood oxygen level drops and you go in to the hospital you get no visitors. Laying in the dark by yourself, trying to breath, thinking of family, and praying is where it hits you that this thing is STRONG and this could be the end.

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

Reading about COVID-19 and discussing with friends or watching news reports is one thing. When you have FELT THE POWER OF IT as I have you understand that this thing isn’t about left or right politics. It’s about our commmon humanity and survival.

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

All I ask is that you make good decisions in dealing with this virus. It’s possible to live life, have fun, have commerce, and respect your fellow humans. Please be smart. And do the best you can.

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020

And finallly, never take a sweet breadth of life for granted. Especiallly when you are with people you love and that love you.

— charlie (@CharlieRymerPGA) June 30, 2020