Craig Melvin’s Today stars set to support him and wife for event close to heart

Craig Melvin, a familiar face to many as a host on the “Today” show, is known for his warmth and professionalism. But behind the scenes, a deeply personal and touching story drives a cause close to his heart. This year, as in years past, Craig and his wife, Lindsay Czarniak, will host The Bottoms Up Invitational, a charity golf tournament dedicated to the memory of Craig’s late brother, Lawrence, whose life was cut tragically short by colorectal cancer. This event is a testament to a family’s enduring love and a powerful commitment to turning grief into meaningful action.

The genesis of The Bottoms Up Invitational is rooted in profound loss. In 2020, Craig’s older brother, Lawrence, passed away at the age of 43. Lawrence’s battle with stage 4 colorectal cancer was a private and painful journey for the Melvin family, beginning with subtle symptoms like abdominal pain and weight loss. His death was a devastating blow, one that left a void in their lives and a powerful motivation to prevent others from experiencing the same fate. Craig has often spoken about the grief and the sense of helplessness he felt, but he and Lindsay chose to channel that raw emotion into a mission of advocacy.

The annual tournament is more than just a fundraiser; it is a heartfelt tribute to a beloved brother. Held at the picturesque Shorehaven Golf Club in Connecticut, the event brings together a community of friends, family, and colleagues who stand in solidarity with the Melvins. The sight of Craig’s “Today” show family showing up to lend their support is particularly moving. Regular attendees like Willie Geist, Dylan Dreyer, and Harry Smith, along with sports commentators and friends such as Jay Harris, Hilton Carter, and Alex English, are a testament to the close-knit bonds forged both on and off-screen. Their presence underscores the deep personal connections that fuel the event, making it less of a celebrity affair and more of a genuine gathering of people united by a common purpose.

The cause at the heart of the event is the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Craig and Lindsay’s efforts have been instrumental in raising crucial funds and, equally important, raising awareness about a disease that is often misunderstood or diagnosed too late. Through The Bottoms Up Invitational, they highlight the importance of early detection and the need for greater access to screening. Their advocacy is a powerful message to others, especially younger individuals, that colorectal cancer is not just a disease for older people and that vigilance is key. Every dollar raised and every conversation started at the tournament honors Lawrence’s memory by potentially saving another life.

The event itself has grown and evolved over the years, a reflection of the Melvins’ commitment. The hosts have made thoughtful changes, such as adjusting the schedule to allow guests from the city to attend more easily, acknowledging that even on a “school night,” the community’s support is invaluable. This attention to detail demonstrates their dedication to making the event a seamless and powerful experience for everyone involved.

In a world often filled with fleeting headlines, The Bottoms Up Invitational stands as a beautiful and lasting example of compassion. It is a story of a family’s unwavering love, a brother’s legacy, and a community’s support. It’s an emotional journey that reminds us all of the profound impact we can have when we turn our personal pain into a public purpose. Craig and Lindsay Melvin’s heartfelt gesture in memory of Lawrence is a powerful beacon of hope, inspiring countless others to support a cause that is saving lives and honoring the memory of a life gone too soon.