Family, community remember drunk driving victim with fun run

More than two years ago, a Beaumont teacher was killed by a drunk driver in Jasper County.  But today, his life and legacy still lives on through his students and their feet.

Some people run for a purpose, but these people, of all ages, are running for a person.

"He touched a lot of lives in a short time here."

In January of 2007, 34-year-old Mark Hernandez was killed in Jasper County by drunk driver Gerald Bays.

The Nederland resident not only left behind a large family, but an admiring student body at Ehrhart School in Beaumont, where he worked as a P.E. teacher and coach.

"He began to share with them some of his life stories..."

Those stories included his love for sports in particular, running.

And since his death, not only has Hernandez's family worked to keep him alive in their lives, but the school community he inspired to stay fit, sets foot in his name, every year, for Mark's run.

Richard Hernandez, Mark's father, said, "We all get a blessing from it so it just rewards everyone and we're just so appreciative of the outpouring of love."

Mother Against Drunk Driving spokeswoman Kathy Bell-Schexnaider said, "A lot of my victims will always want something like this to happen to where something good can come from the death of their loved one and this family has just been real motivated to have that happen."

Mark's run isn't only a blessing, but a benefit in more ways than one.

"I think they like the concept of, 'Oh, I can compete,' I think they enjoy that, also Ii really believe in my heart the kids truly understand the reason we promote this and I think they know they're out there for a good cause."

So whether the purpose be for fitness or fun, a walk or a run... the person behind it all will always be Mark.

The Mark's Run challenge will continue until May 14th.  Then, students with the most laps in their division receive the Mark award trophy.