Survivors Don Their Skivvies for Undy 5000

Each year, the winner of the Tour de France is awarded the maillot jaune – a yellow jersey – to signify victory over other competitors.

On Saturday, Sept. 10, Carl Fisher of Doylestown will don his own yellow jersey labeled “Survivor” for victory over cancer.

Fisher and his team of supporters will be joining hundreds of others for the Colon Cancer Alliance’s fourth annual Undy 5000, a national 5K fun run and walk where participants sport boxers and briefs for awareness.

When Fisher, 47, was diagnosed with rectal cancer in January, his close friend and former neighbor Jeffrey Pakrul said he knew a bit of humor would help Fisher recover from his difficult surgery.

Pakrul, a runner and barbecue aficionado, registered the cleverly-titled Carl’s Wrecked’em & BBQ Team for the race in Philadelphia, and began recruiting runners and receiving donations.

“It was incredibly crushing when he told me he was diagnosed with cancer,” said Pakrul, who described Fisher as exceptionally friendly, reliable and thoughtful.

“But what else could I do other than put the team together and not take it too seriously. And I think that’s helped,” he said.

On Saturday, Fisher will walk with his wife, Pakrul and a dozen friends and supporters, some of whom he’s never even met.

“The support group has been wonderful,” said Fisher, who’s in his final stages of chemotherapy.

In addition to inspiring participation in the race, Fisher said his diagnosis spread awareness and prompted many family members and friends to get checked for colon cancer.

While finishing up treatment at ’s Cancer Institute, Fisher said he’s following a healthy lifestyle, ready for a new year and excited to getting back out on the golf course.

“It’s tough the days I do chemo, but then I think I’m that much closer to finishing,” said Fisher, whose next finish line will be crossed in undies.

“Maybe a Speedo,” he joked, admitting he’s still searching for a funky pair of boxers.

Pakrul said he’s looking forward to spending next Saturday with friends and most importantly, sharing Fisher’s amazing story with others.

“He’s the hero,” Pakrul said. “He’s letting people know that cancer isn’t a death sentence. He’s had his challenges, but he’s going to be here in 10 and 20 years because he’s beaten it.”

To contribute to the Undy 5000 on behalf of Carl’s Wrecked’em & BBQ Team, click here.