Run for Jack all about putting grief into action

This Run's For Jack honors the memory of Jack H. Marston II, who died of melanoma cancer. Amy Saletta, a member of the board of directors for the Jack H. Marston II Melanoma Fund and a run organizer, tells us more about the man known as "Coach."

There is so much one could say about Jack Marston. He was the kind of guy you were proud to call your friend.

He was best known in Glen Ellyn as "Coach." With four young children, he took an active role in their lives and the lives of the kids he coached in park district soccer, baseball and basketball. He was on the boards of the Glen Ellyn Park District swim team, house soccer league and baseball league. His ability to infuse fun and competitive spirit into his teams made for a winning combination that left his players feeling both pride in their effort and achievement while having fun playing their sport.

When the Glen Ellyn community lost Jack - a loving father, coach to hundreds of children and avid runner - in July of 2004, it was time to put grief into action. In less than six weeks, friends and family organized the first This Run's For Jack 5K Run/Walk, which to date has raised more than $200,000 for melanoma research and awareness programs.

Jack led by example in all areas of his life - family, church, community, business. Had he survived his battle, he would have been the one leading the race against melanoma. Jack's Run reflects his qualities of determination, tenacity, compassion, competitive spirit and sense of fun.

In his memory, we honor all of those whom melanoma has affected. We embrace the melanoma community and strive to offer a place of hope and healing while together we fight melanoma every step of the way.