Dear Friends,

We are writing on behalf of the family of Marty Furlong. On February 4, 2010, Marty was diagnosed with Stage IV Gastric/Stomach Cancer, at the age of 39. Marty had not been sick a day in his life and in fact had been the picture of health. This news was devastating! After many tests and procedures, Marty began an extremely aggressive regimen of treatment. He underwent months of chemotherapy administered 24 hours a day and had surgery to remove his stomach and part of his esophagus. Unfortunately, the cancer continued to grow and spread. He flew down to Texas in search of a miracle. He enrolled in every clinical trial that was available and any experimental treatment that he could find. But, on February 27, 2012, Marty’s courageous battle came to an end less than a week after ending treatment.

Marty was a lifelong resident of the South Side where he attended St. John Fisher Grammar School and then went on to Mount Carmel High School where he played baseball. In 1997, Marty married the love of his life, Tara (Henry). They settled in Evergreen Park and chose Most Holy Redeemer Parish to raise their family because it is a community built on faith and family values. Marty and Tara have four children – Grace, 13, Gillian 11, Olivia, 9 and Marty, Jr. 7.

Marty was an incredible husband and father. He was often seen outside with a smile on his face, while playing catch or basketball with his children, as well as many others from the neighborhood. Their house was always full of kids, no matter how badly he felt. Unfortunately, Marty will never get to see his kids grow up. Tara is now left with the overwhelming task of raising their children alone while finding a way to financially support & educate her young family,

Most of us have been affected in some way by this horrific disease. Marty suffered for two years and in spite of the odds, was convinced he would beat this disease. He fought so hard to be here for his family. We will continue to FIGHT LIKE MARTY in his honor!

We are looking for donations and sponsors of any kind (prizes, beverages, gifts, monetary donations) for a benefit to assist in the continuing support and education of their four children.

Please join us on March 2, 2013, at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park, 3:00-8:00PM. Tickets are $35.

We thank you deeply for your generosity and support and look forward to seeing you on March 2, 2013.