Behind the Badge
Two police officers who survived battles with cancer are leading an effort to raise funds to help officers and their families cope with the disease.
They are hosting a kickball tournament Jan. 21 at El Dorado Park in Long Beach.
Organized by Ret. Long Beach PD Cmdr. Josef Levy and Seal Beach Sgt. Steve Bowles, the 6th Annual Chrissy Strong-Marshall Memorial Kickball Tournament features 16 teams battling to raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Cancer Support Foundation and the City of Hope.
The NLECSF includes a network of police cancer survivors who are committed to helping those currently dealing with the disease.
Strong-Marshall was a manager for Long Beach’s Parks, Recreation and Marine Department. She died in 2009 at the age of 40 after a seven-year battle with the disease.
She was one of the first people Levy called when he was diagnosed in 2007.
“She always had time for my calls and to answer questions about treatments and other medical-related questions,” Levy said.
Levy said he and two colleagues were inspired to start the kickball tournament in her honor because it best represented her passion for ensuring every child had an opportunity to participate in sports.
To sponsor the tournament or make a donation, contact Levy at 562-577-5874.
