FOKing Run for the Greenhouse
Kevin Jones was recently diagnosed with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the throat. This is a curable cancer but with all cancers it wont leave without leaving devastation to its host.
F@#K CANCER!
But what I have learned about Kevin is that this in no way will ever define him. What Kevin is, is an Inspiring Ultrarunner, Assistant Professor of Biology at Charleston Southern University specializing in botany and plant sciences, former High School Teacher, Retired Navy Veteran of 20 years, Beloved Husband, and a Great Friend.
He also has a huge passion for plants. FOK decided Kevin needed a new greenhouse. He had to move from a rented home he had rented for 20 years and couldn't easily just pack up a greenhouse, so we need to step up and get him a new one. ( this is where all you step in, Register!)
Kevin started his running journey about 13 years ago as a way to lose a lot of excess pounds, in that time he persevered to move on as an accomplished ultrarunner. Kevin is relentless and determined which is evident as he has toughed through chemotherapy, numerous racing events, including a 100 miler, and several tooth extractions to allow for radiation. The replacements are not covered by insurance and this will be costly. (this is another reason, have you registered yet?) Now is the wait to see if he is cancer free.
At his side, his love for 38years,you will find Anne, his wife. She is as much part of this event as he is. She is there for him as much as he was there for her through her recent survival through breast cancer. She is his inspiration, his best friend, and the “why” in his life.
Kevin’s selflessness extends from home to his friends, and the Low Country running community. He has crewed, and volunteered his time over the years and recently with a feeding tube just to help others meet their goals! After trolling his facebook page I came upon something he had written. He had requested this after telling one of his classrooms his diagnosis. I read it as a few tears fell from my eyes.
“I am going to be ok, whatever ok is going to be. I ask that you pray for the comfort for those that are upset by what has happened to me”
You're going to be ok, Kevin. This ones for you and Anne.