“In Loving Memory of Uncle Dave”
By Sarah Banks
An avid runner for most of her life, Lexy Green wanted to do something special to honor the memory of her Uncle Dave so she signed up for her first half- marathon. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2012 at 55 years old, her Uncle Dave fought the disease for two months. His efforts to remain physically and emotionally strong inspired his nieces Lexy, Christy, and Livy. The three sisters were very close with him; growing up he took them to play dates, sports events, and was incredibly supportive. To his nieces he would always be a spirited, lovable, and memorable man in their lives. It felt only natural to honor his life through an experience that would inspire hope. An unforgettable experience as a tribute for an unforgettable man, they thought.
Lexy and her sisters decided to coordinate efforts to fundraise for pancreatic cancer research while Lexy prepared to run the 2013 Austin Half-Marathon. Christy and Livy helped spearhead fundraising while Lexy trained. The sisters started a H.E.L.P. Fund with the Hirshberg Foundation and began asking friends, family, and their sorority sisters to donate. Their mom stepped in to help fundraise by reaching out to colleagues and loved ones. Lexy says, “The money my mom, sisters and I raised in his memory, in such a short period of time, is a testament to his character and how many people absolutely adored him.”
David Barach meant the world to these girls and they worked together to honor his memory. Livy reflects, “Our Uncle Dave was adored by family, friends, co-workers, and all who came to know him. He really was such an amazing person and his good nature and positive spirit will forever be an inspiration to everyone who knew him.” Lexy added, “This experience was truly a journey beyond anything we’ve ever done. It was so meaningful and overwhelmingly inspiring, and something that we plan to keep doing!”