Renowned pianist and music scholar Martin Berkofsky won his battle against cancer in 2000 after receiving treatment at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) at Southwestern Regional Medical Center (SRMC) in Tulsa, OK. “I returned with a new outlook on life,” says Martin. “I came back with a conviction that caring works at every level. I returned with a commitment to help other cancer patients,” citing his treatment at CTCA as inspiration for this journey.

On April 8th in Tulsa, Martin held the first of several benefit concerts for Cancer Treatment Research Foundation (CTRF), where 99 cents of every dollar donated goes directly into cancer research. The next morning (his 60th birthday) Martin commenced his Celebrate Life Run, a journey of 860 miles, from Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Tulsa, and crossing the finish line some five months later at Cancer Treatment Research Foundation in suburban Chicago. "My plan is to cover 10 miles a day, 5 days a week," says Martin.

In addition to the benefit concerts planned along the route, Martin is raising funds through donations and per-mile pledges from supporters. Don't forget to cheer Martin on by signing his guestbook.

Martin welcomes anyone to come out and join him during any leg of the run. "I want this to be more about people than technology" says Martin, "I don't want a gadget filled van following me." As an amateur (HAM) radio enthusiast, Martin will be relying on friends and fellow radio enthusiasts along the way for shelter and hospitality.

CelebrateLifeRun.com will be with Martin every step of the way. Check in often for updates on Martin's progress, read his Journal entries, as well as the latest information on benefit concerts.