About

In June of 2004 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer and embarked on the journey to become a cancer survivor. The past six years I have embarked on a different journey, a sunrise to sunset golf marathon, we dubbed Swingin’ Fore a Coz! The genesis of the marathon came in January of 2005 when I was declared cancer-free following surgery and chemotherapy.

I was fortunate to receive my treatment at the Cancer Center of Kansas in Wichita. The level of care and quality of their staff is terrific, on par with any facility in the Midwest. Additionally, my family and I were able to use the Victory in the Valley hospitality lounge across from the Cancer Center of Kansas during my five-plus months of treatment as a place to relax and basically get away from the treatment rooms. Together, they made a difficult situation one of the most positive experiences in my life.

Taking a cue from Terry Fox, the Canadian hero who ran a marathon a day to raise awareness for cancer research, I will walk every hole, covering approximately 30 miles. While it’s obvious I could play more holes (and raise more money) by riding a cart, the physical and mental demands of walking serve as a great reminder of the struggles faced by all cancer patients and is an avenue to honor patients and their caregivers. Even though a number of you have coached me to just play 100 holes, it is important to keep pushing. While your concern is appreciated, the goal will be 118 this year!