BY EMILY SUHR
Hundreds of Gerristen Beach community members gathered for the 21st Annual Dan’s 5K Fun Run/Walk For Cancer on Sept. 13, raising a record breaking $22,160 for cancer organizations and honoring those affected by the disease.
The run kicked off at 11a.m. with 280 people participating, followed by a celebration where attendees bought raffle tickets, event T-shirts, and shared food that filled two rooms. The money is donated to a different organization every year. The chosen recipient this year, Calvary Hospital, takes care of adults with “advanced cancer and other life-limiting diseases.”
Founded by Dan Foster, a cancer survivor and lifelong community member, the event is both personal and deeply rooted in local support. Foster’s grandson, who passed away recently from cancer at 27 years old, was honored through this year’s run.
“We have so many people in the community and other people that have been affected by cancer, my main thing is to give them hope,” said Foster.
Foster’s commitment has inspired a dedicated team of volunteers, including his neighbor Margaret French, who has helped organize the run for the past nineteen years.
“I thought that it could be bigger than it was and it is now,” said French. “My suggestion was to get food donations for the runners and walkers for after they came back. Almost all food is donated through people from the community and myself.”
“This was our best year,” French confirmed.
Other volunteers include the Boy Scouts, who helped direct the runners. The 61st Precinct blocked off the avenue and helped pedestrians cross the street. City Council Member Mercedes Narcisse also attended to show her support.
“I have such deep admiration for Dan Foster and his family, whose courage and commitment continue to inspire us all,” said Narcisse, in a Facebook post. “It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and to meet new friends who came out to support this great cause.”
For first-time participant Lauren Piselli, the event was especially meaningful. She came in honor of her late mother, Cathy Lisk, who was recognized during the event. Piselli attended with her mother’s best friend by her side.
“I love seeing people come together for such a beautiful cause,” said Piselli. “People forget to celebrate lives of people who are no longer here and this is a great way to bring people together to celebrate life and raise money for people who are still fighting the fight.”
Foster declined to comment on rumors that this might be the last year.
“We will be having our first community meeting in October to work out some more details,” said French. “The run has been an important part of our community for the past twenty one years, and we will work hard to continue to keep this great event going.”
For those who have participated over the past two decades, the legacy is already cemented.
“I cannot imagine how many people he has helped with all the money he has raised in all these years,” said French. “This light will continue to shine.”