Upcoming races memorialize those who fought cancer
By Joann Groff joann@theacorn.com

When his cancer went into remission, David Berney hoped to start running again. He'd participated in more than 20 marathons all over the world and missed hearing his feet hit the asphalt. But after his cancer returned a relentless third time, Berney fought for only three months before succumbing to the disease in May.

Berney is being honored with a memorial 5/10K run and walk this Sat., Aug. 4. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at Road Runner Sports in Newbury Park. The race kicks off at 9 a.m. Entry is free, but donations are welcome. All proceeds will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Berney was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2002 when he was 56. He began aggressive chemotherapy treatment immediately, and his cancer was sent into remission. But in 2004, Berney was struck by a truck while mountain biking and sustained multiple injuries. Not only did he have to learn to walk again, he had to face cancer again when the injuries triggered its return.

Berney again beat the cancer back into remission before it returned for the third time in February. Berney, 61, died in May after another hard-fought battle.

Registration forms are available at Road Runner Sports, 1714 Newbury Road in Newbury Park or via e-mail from amber.mccarty@lls.org.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has also organized a race for Krista Romero, an 18-year-old graduate of Ventura's Buena High. She died June 9 after a three-year battle with leukemia. The Krista Romero Memorial Run and Walk is Sat., Aug. 11 and starts at 9 a.m. at San Buenaventura State Beach.

For more information, call the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at (805) 201-7150.