Kline was born with
heterotaxy syndrome ( heart with one ventricle instead of two ). In addition, her liver was transverse
and she did not have a spleen. She had two open-heart surgeries before she turned 2. At the age of 14 doctors discovered a hole in Kline''s heart that had to be fixed in another operation.
Kline,15 years old now, is the first player in U.S. LPGA history to ride a cart during her rounds because of a medical condition, was officially removed from the tournament because she scored 88 or more. She wouldn''t have made the cut at 31-over par after scores of 86-89, and she can''t play in a tour event for the rest of the year.
She may not yet measure up to U.S. LPGA standards, but Kline was thrilled with the experience — and more certain than ever the tour is her career path.
"I''m just trying to work on my game" and not worry about scoring, Kline said. "Other than that, it was fun."
"Just as important, she said, was raising awareness for the Children''s Heart
Foundation, for which she was a national spokeswoman. Ginn Resorts announced a $20,000 (€15,000) donation to the foundation in Kline''s name.