Losing a loved one to cancer can be devastating.

In the case of David Formica of Jim Thorpe, who passed away in 2006 at the age of 15, it was especially difficult.

David’s sister, Heather, decided to create the David F. Formica Memorial Poker Run to help raise money for cancer research and to keep David’s memory alive.

Fifteen years later, the poker run has done just that. This year’s event, which is the last one they will hold, was held Saturday, and raised $8,578.

The poker run has raised over $85,000 over the years. Together with their other fundraising efforts, the Formica family and supporters have raised approximately $388,000.

The money raised goes to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society; and to the Ronald McDonald Camp in Greeley, a camp for families of those with cancer; and to a scholarship fund created in David’s name at Jim Thorpe Area High School.

“We have a great group of people that come out and support us every year and bring new people in,” Pam Formica, David’s mother, said. “We are just so grateful to everyone that they come out to remember David and help make his dream come true.”

Approximately 70 riders (motorcycles and other vehicles) registered and received their first poker card at Annie’s Ice Cream on North Street, Jim Thorpe. From there, they traveled to Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Jim Thorpe; Packerton Old Timers Club, Pine Street, Lehighton; Orioles Nest #183, Lehighton; and the bar at Knepper’s Inn, West Penn Pike, New Ringgold.

The final stop was at the Beaver Run Rod and Gun Club, Lehighton, where participants enjoyed a pig roast provided by Meyers Catering, a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, and entertainment by Layne “The Doc” Roberts from Colossal Radio.

While this was the final poker run, David’s family will continue to hold other fundraising events.

Sponsors for the 2024 run included: Annie’s Ice Cream, A. D. Home Inspections LLC, Packerton Old Timers Club, Mauch Chunk Pharmacy, Beaver Run Rod and Gun Club, Twin Angels (Sandy Moran), Lehighton Orioles Nest 183, Agentis Kitchen & Bath, Mauch Chunk 5 and 10, Meyers Catering, Five Star Sealcoating LLC, Tim Sohn, Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank, Southbound Consulting Services, Schuylkill-Carbon Marine Corps, Ann and Sal Mint, Big Daddy’s Garage, and Paul Yoder Photography.