In September, 2019 David completed a demanding four event race called Quadrathalon. He ran, pedaled, pumped and paddled with enthusiasm and fierce focus.

His colorful tie dyed starbursts stood out strongly as it stuck to his sweaty torso.

His eyes were beaming with pride, his reassuring smile always led the way for our 50 participants.

This appeal thanks each of you for supporting David’s active shenanigans including muddy runs, 5000 meter swims, knock out boxing bonanzas and quad races.

Who would have ever thought that David would be diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer just two weeks after he completed the Quad Race with such gusto in September 2019?

David’s joi de Vivre was ironically finding his fitness through Fit 4 The Cause’s diverse and at times demanding exercise programs. The dooming diagnoses of this deadly disease paralyzed us, while sharpening his determination to beat the odds.

He didn’t want to burden any of us with the bloodiest battle of his lifetime. He continued his passionate lawyering until breathing became laborious with his crumbling legs leaving him bedridden. 

We lost this phenomenal, irreplaceable superhero on March 22nd, 2020. Our dear friend David Kestenbaum said, “it’s apparent that God needed him more than we do.”

David was loyally devoted to the Fit 4 The Cause mission.  Serving on several well respected boards, he was blown away by how this nonprofit served so many with miraculous cost efficiency. 

And we need your support now more than ever!

Our vulnerable children, seniors and adults with special needs are facing increased isolation, anxiety, stress and fear during this COVID-19 pandemic.  Funding for special needs groups is decreasing significantly as their family’s face job losses and additional burdens of trauma from the economic fallout.  

 Knowing that group exercise classes, stress management programs and nutrition education is especially important now for low-income, fragile populations, Fit 4 The Cause pioneered a robust virtual fitness schedule as an active response to the lockdown. In fact, our non-profit organization doubled its class offerings adding programs with Conejo Parks and Recreation, Tri-Counties Regional Center, Engage Therapy Mental Health Treatment Center and local hospitals serving healthcare workers.   

Our staff and volunteers provide friendship, coaching, confidence building, structure, engagement and physical activity.

Exercise is especially important during this pandemic for stress reduction, boosting the immunity system and improving sleep. 

PLEASE support us as we continue to mitigate depression and provide vital social services and physical activity for our communities. 

David’s last wish was for all of us to remember his laughter and carry on his succession to make the world a better place. Any donation large or small in David’s memory will help my Derby Girl move for our critical programs.  

Let’s all do this for David.