Cancer is familiar to us all. Everyone I know has lost someone or is currently facing a struggle against the disease. My grandfather was originally diagnosed when I was very young. I don't remember what his voice sounded like before his voice box was removed. He passed away in 2006 and he continues to be a hugely important influence. I loved spending time with him, whether it was running errands in San Francisco, reading the paper, or watching the sunset over the Pacific. He was the most fascinating person in the world to me. The other person that inspired me to run with the American Cancer Society is my neighbor and dear family friend John. John was a doctor that specialized in heart research. After retiring he moved into a home across from my family where he grew roses and read voraciously. His living room was full of stacks and stacks of books. It was like a library came to crash on his couch for a couple of weeks. After he told my parents that he had been diagnosed with cancer, he consoled them by saying, "In 10 years no one will die of this, the research is that good."
Some problems feel so massive that a solution seems impossible. I would like to think that whatever this campaign raises will be a small step toward realizing that future. I have a long way to go in my training and fundraising. This blog will keep track of progress on both fronts. In exchange for your time and money I hope to post regularly about a range of topics. I hope you will check in regularly and make a donation.
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/DetermiNation/DNFY11IL?px=40618087&pg=personal&fr_id=69178
