The Bayport-Blue Point High School Class of 2013 honored their President, cancer survivor C.J. Furchert, by organizing a 5K Run/Walk to benefit the class and the Liddy Shriver Sarcoma Initiative.

Sarcoma is a very rare type of cancer that encompasses less than one percent of all diagnosed cancers. The disease has recently affected two families in the Bayport-Blue Point area: In addition to Furchert, the other patient is Blue Point resident, Jane Mazzio, who took part in the walk, and received a bouquet of flowers from Furchert.

The Strides for Sarcoma 5K, which kicked off at Blue Point Fire Department, was organized by Furchert and the Class of 2013 officers, but the entire class participated by making homemade goodies that were given out as awards. 

Before the starting time, Furchert, who was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer in July, 2010 and is now cancer-free, addressed participants in an informative and moving speech. 

"Sarcoma knows no borders," he said. "It is frequently misdiagnosed as sports injuries. Many sarcoma tumors resist current treatments. When you notice something unusual about your body, don't hide it, get it checked out."

Lots of generous sponsors helped make the event a success, including: Tina's Italian Ices, Cavanaugh's, the Blue Point Fire Department, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Bayport Flower Houses and the Blue Point-Bayport Lions Club.

There were also several raffle prizes donated by companies, such as Harbor Crab Co., the Long Island Ducks, Starbucks, Edible Arrangements, Salsa Salsa and more.

An impressive number of adults, students and families came out early that morning despite the torrential downpour which, thankfully, subsided by the time the race commenced. Furchert was excited to be involved with an event that fundraised for such a personal cause.

"After seeing all the other kids in Sloan-Kettering [Cancer Center], I just wanted to help," said Furchert, who has organized several charitable events.