5K Aids/Cancer Run Set for Seaford Sunday

In 1997, some could say that Richard Brodsky's life took a turn for the worst when the Atlantic Beach resident was diagnosed as HIV-positive.

Just five years later, Brodsky's well-being was thrown for another loop when he received a terminal brain cancer diagnosis from his oncologist.

"I was expected to live for no more than 2-4 years," said Brodsky. "I was very fortunate. I was able to continue running."

Brodsky's passion for running and his fighting spirit to defeat the diseases he has been struck with will be on full display this Sunday at the third annual 5K AIDS / Cancer Run / Walk at  in Seaford to benefit the Richard M. Brodsky Foundation.

Running has always been a passion of Brodsky's, and just one year after his cancer diagnosis in 2002, he completed the New York City Marathon with his brain oncologist, Casilda Balmaceda. Brodsky has used his love for running to raise money for cancer and AIDS research.

"I started to realize that I just may beat this cancer," said Brodsky as he thought back on his battle.

Though he still goes for a routine MRI every three months, Brodsky did just that - physically and emotionally.

"I really appreciate things a lot more," said Brodsky. "I look forward to my next birthday, because the other option isn't too good. People get depressed because they're turning 30 or 40 or 50. I think it's crazy. I can hardly wait to turn 60 and 70 and all the years to follow."

The 58-year old has led a positive, successful life in more ways than one. Brodsky and his wife, Jodi, have just celebrated their 31-year wedding anniversary, and the couple will watch one of their daughters marry later this month.

After two years of progress through his bout with cancer, Brodsky and his oncologist felt that he should raise awareness and help others through his magnificent survival story. The Richard Brodsky Foundation was founded in 2004.

"I didn't realize exactly what I was getting into, but I find it really rewarding to be in the position I am now; to help others living with HIV and cancer," he said.

In the beginning, Brodsky and his wife spent time in Africa, where treatment for such diseases is very limited. In 2008, the foundation introduced a 5K AIDS/Cancer Run/Walk to the local community.

"It's a really nice event, and we get people from all over Long Island," Brodsky said. "The first 25 people to sign up who are living with HIV or cancer participate free of charge."

This year's run will take place this Sunday at Seaford's Cedar Creek Park starting at 9 a.m. To register for the run click here.