[Update - 9/3/24 - Our beloved father passed away on August 23rd. We still plan to run this fall in his memory.]

GIVING MEANING TO OUR MILES

We’re taking on the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon with Fred’s Team, the official running program of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK). Our dad, Dr. Douglas Berson, was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in early 2023. Ben and I are running this marathon to honor the physical and mental fortitude he displays in his battle against cancer every day. Our goal is to raise as much as we can to support groundbreaking cancer research at MSK, and your donation will give us a boost as we train for our race.

"Since I was a kid, my dad has been a dedicated member of the St. Louis Hash House Harriers -  a cross-country style running community where he is aptly nicknamed "Running Nose" due to his profession as an Allergist. As a toddler, my dad would push me in a stroller while he ran through forests, under bridges, across fields, and over all sorts of terrain with his running companions.

After moving to NYC in 2021, I followed my dad's example and found a wonderful community through running. I've since completed several half marathons and am absolutely stoked to take on a full marathon in 2024, with many friends and my brother at my side.

A marathon is no small undertaking, but in moments of doubt I need only think of my dad's unwavering display of strength since his cancer diagnosis. He shows me everyday how to pursue honor in the face of adversity and I am so proud to be his daughter." - Elizabeth

In addition to honoring our dad's cancer battle, we're also proud to be running and fundraising as a testament to our aunt, Diane Berson, and her 5+ year battle with Lymphoma. Always ahead of her time, Diane is a devoted pickleball player (long before it was popularized), TV and video producer, and crossword puzzle expert. Her sense of humor, independence, and athleticism have inspired us since we were kids and we're overjoyed to run in her honor.

MORE ABOUT DR. DOUGLAS BERSON

Dr. Berson is an Allergy & Immunologist, winemaker, mushroom foraging enthusiast, avid reader, tough Words With Friends opponent, outdoor adventurer, husband, and father of 3. A spirited student of life, our dad (along with our mom!) has trekked in the Himalayas and worked in clinics on the streets of Kolkata with Mother Teresa. He ran his own medical practice for over 30 years,  and has made some of the best Chambourcin wine I've ever had. Those lucky enough to engage him in conversation know that he is hilarious, intelligent, present, and genuine - with an unmatched love for living and learning.

After being diagnosed with cancer, he became a participant in a clinical trial at Washington University in St. Louis that helped him beat many odds and is a testament to the hard work of cancer research organizations like MSK. He continues to receive treatment for his cancer and remains hopeful for future cutting edge treatments.

100% OF YOUR DONATION SUPPORTS RESEARCH

Named in honor of New York City Marathon co-founder and MSK patient Fred Lebow, Fred’s Team brings together passionate runners and supporters to make progress against cancer. Since 1995, Fred’s Team participants have raised over $110 million. 100% of funds raised go directly into MSK labs, where doctors and scientists have expertise in more than 400 types of cancer and work every day to find new cures.

When you make a gift to Fred’s Team, you help MSK researchers develop new treatment options for the people who need them most. Together, we can make a big difference.

Thank you!