A brother's keeper: Chandler Phillips' rise driven by family, firm foundation
“HOUSTON – Chandler Phillips isn’t here for fame or money or trophies.
He’s here for his brother.
Dawson Phillips, three years younger, is autistic. He doesn’t require constant supervision but always needs someone around (if there’s a fire, for example, he wouldn’t know what to do). So when the time comes for Phillips to take care of Dawson, he’ll step away from competitive golf and do just that.
It’s a powerful act of loyalty, but that’s Phillips’ defining trait.
“He’s just the happiest man in the world. You feel like you’re having a bad day, and …” said Phillips, his voice trailing off. “He’ll never be able to live by himself. At some point, I’m going to have to quit golf, once my parents pass or whatever – hopefully that’s not anytime soon – and have to take care of him. I’ve faced that fact. There’s nothing wrong with that with me, but I’m never going to have somebody take care of him.
“That’s my brother. He’s f----ing awesome. He’s my best friend.”