Meet Our Keynote Speaker: Chief Mark Furnish
The Colon Cancer Prevention Project is honored to welcome Chief Mark Furnish, retired Chief of the Monroe Township Volunteer Fire Department, as our keynote speaker at the 2026 Kicking Butt 5K in support of the Bruce DeArk First Responders Education Program.
Chief Furnish was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022 during his very first colonoscopy at age 59. Inspired by fellow firefighter Bruce DeArk’s commitment to raising awareness about colorectal cancer—and encouraged by his wife, Janna—Mark made the decision to get screened. Because he took action, his cancer was detected early, and today he is proudly cancer-free.
After a remarkable 44-year career serving and protecting his community, Mark retired from the fire service in 2025. Today, he shares his story to encourage others—especially fellow first responders—to prioritize their health and get screened. Mark and his wife, Janna, are proud parents of two daughters and grandparents to two grandchildren.
Mark’s story reflects the mission of the Bruce DeArk First Responders Education Program, which was created to honor Bruce’s dedication to protecting those at increased risk for colorectal cancer. Through this program, first responders receive education about their elevated cancer risks and the importance of prevention and early detection.
This year’s event also celebrates the expansion of the Colon Cancer Prevention Project’s services into Southern Indiana through an incredible partnership with the Clark County, Indiana Health Department. Together, we are increasing access to colorectal cancer education, screening navigation, transportation assistance, lifesaving colonoscopies, and first responder cancer prevention resources for those who need them most.
Join us as we celebrate survivors, honor heroes like Bruce DeArk, and continue the fight to prevent colorectal cancer—because when cancer is found early, lives are saved.
Assemble your squad, or just join ours! Register today:
https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Louisville/KickingButtforColonCancer
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