My name is Tas Moak and I am a first-time marathoner. I decided several months ago that I would dedicate my marathon run to Joe Meyer, my late father-in-law.

Joe was a dear friend to many people including me - his family first and foremost. He served as an example of a good father, a hard and honest worker, a man who sought to improve the world and people around him.

He loved his family, including his grandsons, very dearly. At the time he was diagnosed with lung cancer in October 2002, he had already taken his very young grandsons on their first perch-catching trip!

Over the summer of 2002, he had become sick with symptoms of respiratory problems, and was diagnosed with cancer in October. He passed away with his family by his side December 22, 2002.

I saw how hard cancer is on the victim as well as the family, and I decided that through an organization such as Houston CanCare, we can all help make a difference to help with emotional support for those suffering from cancer and to their families.

Houston CanCare's mission is to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families.