I was 17 years old when we discovered my cousin Michael Gensch (18 years old) had a brain tumor. It was hard to imagine that a young athlete could be so vulnerable to such a damaging and life threatening sickness. Cancer; a word associated with turmoil and fear, has became a terrifying reality for more than one of my generation in the Gensch Family. Michael fought his cancer till the day he met his maker. It was not long until we discovered that his older brother Ryan had the same kind of cancer which threatened paralysis, and even his life. Ryan and his two younger brothers Eric and Jonathon are all cancer survivors. It is difficult to imagine an entire family of young men has had to face this life threatening disease at such young ages.
At the age of twenty two, my cousin Glory Gensch was diagnosed after several months of stomach aches and cramping. Much the same way as with Michael, doctors were not inclined to assume a young healthy individual may be showing signs of metastasized cancer. Eleven months later, the cancer took Glory’s life. The reason I run, is because of the painful reality I came face to face with in the lives of my cousins. We need to broadcast and support the importance of early detection practices. Lives are saved when knowledge is shared. I am asking that you support the hundreds of thousands of young people who encounter the fight for life against cancer. Lives can be saved with our effort.
This organization was started by my cousin (Glory’s elder brother), Jeromy Gensch. 100% of the proceeds go directly to Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center (FHCRC), Glory’s wish and personal request. It was her vision to start this charity, and save lives that were going to face the same struggles she endured. Race Charities has a 501c3 status from the IRS and all contributions are tax deductible. Please consider the difference your money could make and help me raise support for this noble cause.
On November 14th I am running in San Antonio’s Rock and Roll Half Marathon, in honor of my cousins and with the hope of raising $1000 for Race Charities.