The Lift Foundation Presents: The Dr. Elizabeth Jacobson Memorial PCA Rodeo to be held in Brierfield, Alabama 

By Sheila Duncan 

Reporter 

 

On September 20th and 21st, the Lift Foundation will host the Dr. Elizabeth Jacobson Memorial PCA Rodeo in Brierfield, Alabama. The foundation was established in 2024 to honor Libby’s memory. Libby’s Inspiration For Tomorrow (LIFT) was established in loving memory of Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Jacobson, MD who lost her battle to mental Health. To understand Dr. Elizabeth Jacobson’s impact, it’s important to know that she was a beacon of light to everyone she encountered. Those fortunate enough to have known her or benefited from her many talents know she was truly irreplaceable. Libby had an extraordinary ability to recognize when someone was in need—whether it was a health issue, financial difficulty, or emotional hardship—and she made it her mission to help, often resolving the problem entirely. One of the most profound examples of her generosity was the gift of life she gave to the Kohen family. In 2018, while attending a conference in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Jacobson and her husband Keith saved the life of a 4-year-old boy, Zachary Kohen, who was found unresponsive in a swimming pool. Today, Zachary is healthy and thriving thanks to their swift actions. In recognition of their heroism, the American Heart Association honored the Jacobsons with the HeartSaver Hero Award that year. 

After Zachary’s accident, the Kohen family dedicated a star in the sky in Libby’s honor as a token of their deep gratitude. They often gaze at their “Libby-Star,” knowing it symbolizes the brilliance, unwavering love, and indomitable spirit that defined her. As it shines brightly, it reminds them that her light was the brightest of all, illuminating countless lives. 

Libby’s impact on many lives will echo for eternity. She held herself and those around her to the highest standards, inspiring everyone to reach new heights. She was especially empowering to women, offering opportunities, confidence, and mentorship that profoundly changed their lives. Libby was a beacon of light to all who knew her, and we are forever blessed to have known and loved her. 

Dr. Jacobson’s personal and professional achievements are too numerous to list in full, but some highlights include graduating summa cum laude from Auburn University with a degree in microbiology, where she was named Auburn’s Most Outstanding Senior in 1993. She went on to graduate magna cum laude from UAB medical school in 1999 and completed her Dermatology Residency in 2003. An active member of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, she also served as a past President of the Alabama Dermatology Society. 

In 2010, Dr. Jacobson was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation for her exceptional commitment to volunteerism in dermatology. Her vast knowledge, expertise, and passion allowed her to educate countless students, guiding them from basic principles to the most complex cases. She dedicated her career to the daily fight against skin cancer, saving numerous lives. 

The Libby’s Inspiration for Tomorrow Foundation (LIFT) proudly presents this special memorial rodeo event in honor of Dr. Jacobson and her lifelong dedication to supporting her community. 

This event will take place on Friday, September 20th and Saturday, September 21st, 2024.  The gates will open at 5:00 PM and the rodeo will start at 7:30 PM.  It will be hosted at Bombshell Equine at 646 Burt Spur Road, Brierfield, Alabama 35035 

This event will be fun for the entire family!  They will have Mutton Busting for your brave and daring children, family entertainment by Dave “Showtime” Meyer and Rawhide & Dusty as well as a full schedule of rodeo events – riding, roping and racing. 

There will be vendors for shopping, dining and entertainment for the kids, including inflatable bounce house activities and face painting. 

There is a fee at the gate, children under 3 years of age enter for free. 

Come out and Support this Foundation. Hope to see you there!