I have actively been involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for many years. During that time, I have met some pretty incredible people all with one common goal—to find a cure for cancer. 
My very close friend, Jason Fleischer, originally from Massapequa, is up for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Man of the Year. The Man/Woman of the Year is a 10-week campaign that kicked off on March 26 and concludes June 4. During that time, it is each candidate’s responsibility to raise as much money as possible for the goal of finding a cure for cancer.
Jason has actively been involved with LLS for the last 11 years. He joined Team in Training to get in shape and meet people, but when he first joined, he di
dn’t have a direct connection to the cause. Sadly, over his 11-year involvement, he lost a few friends to cancer and now runs in memory and in honor of them.
Two years ago, Jason started a friends and family team for his friend that had lost his battle to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. They were the highest fundraising team for the NYC chapter for the NYC Half Marathon. Aside from being a participant, Jason was also a coach for Team In Training for many years. In fact, that is how we met. He got me to the finish line of the half marathon in San Diego in 2011.
This year, Jason has accepted the nomination to run for the LLS Man of The Year. For the third year in a row, his goal is to raise money towards a cure that is near and dear to his heart. His campaign team helps with planning events, sending letters and spreading the word about the rally.
There will be a fundraising event on May 16 at Johnny McGorey’s Irish Pub, 131 Front St., Massapequa Park from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.rallyforlls.com.
-Alison Dines
