The first annual Run For Dennis 5k Run/Walk is scheduled for 10:00 a.m., March 17 to honor the memory of Oswego resident Dennis Pacheco (5/28/59-3/17/11), a victim of bladder cancer, it was announced by Jessica Newson, race director and Pacheco’s daughter.
“This run/walk will be chip timed and USA Track & Field (USATF) certified,” Newson said. “All proceeds of the race will go to bladder cancer advocacy and research. This year’s recipients are Strong Memorial Hospital Cancer Center, Rochester, and the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN). Prizes will be awarded to winners in all age groups—including last place!
“Before learning he had cancer, Dennis was always quick to lend others a helping-hand. We would like to honor his giving ways by helping to continue the fight against bladder cancer, the fourth most common type of cancer among men in the US. More than 69,000 cases were diagnosed in 2011 alone.
“Throughout his three year fight, Dennis was very proactive in researching bladder cancer trials and treatment. He was adamant that more could be done to help eradicate this disease. We’re continuing his fight. On behalf of Dennis and my family, we’re asking folks to support this race to ensure that a cure can be found for bladder cancer, so that other families get to enjoy their loved ones for years to come.
“Dennis worked hard and played hard. He was an avid motorcyclist and enjoyed motorsports, hunting, construction, woodworking and playing harmonica. He appreciated all types of music, but especially enjoyed the blues and was known to do an impromptu Elvis impersonation on many occasions.
“He enjoyed coaching soccer and baseball teams as his children grew. When he wasn’t coaching his kids, he was their greatest fan. Dennis frequently said that he was blessed with a wonderful life, surrounded by many friends and a loving family—the center of his world. He was an extremely proud husband, father and grandfather.”
Pacheco is survived by his wife, Jane (Kleinbach) Pacheco; and children, Jessica (Robert) Newson of Saratoga Springs, NY, and Kristin (David) DeGroff of Royal Oak, MI, Nathaniel Pacheco of Oswego; daughter-friend, Jennifer Cushman of Fredericksburg, VA; and grandchildren, Cole and Allison Newson.
Registration for the race, which begins and ends at Gibby’s Pub on Lake St., is $20 per person by Feb 17, $25 after that date, and $30 on race day, Newson said. Registration is open at www.EZRaceReg.com. The website for the race is www.runfordennis.com and the event is also on Facebook® at www.facebook.com/runfordennis. “Donations can be made to ‘Run For Dennis’ and sent to Oswego County Federal Credit Union, P.O. Box 310, Oswego, NY 13126. Anyone who would like to sponsor or donate goods or services to the race can contact me at [email protected].”
Sponsors, to-date, are: Auyer Race Timing, Oswego; Uniforms, Etc., Fulton; and Fleet Feet Sports, Syracuse.
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