Changing the face of cancer...

All of us have been touched in some way by a friend or family member who has bravely battled cancer. I am running, walking, -maybe even crawling on behalf of Lazarex Cancer Foundation to honor my "Honey", my grandmother, who lost a battle of cancer in January 2000. What I wouldn't give to have my children be able to really remember her.

The mission of Lazarex Cancer Foundation is to provide resources for cancer patients who have been told they have no other options, but who are not yet done with their journey in life and refuse to give up. They help build a bridge to hope, life and dignity through community outreach, patient advocacy services, access to and financial assistance for FDA clinical trials. They believe that together we can change the face of cancer. Their stories of risk, courage, and dedication have inspired me to quit smoking and to do something about it! (Quit date: January 6, 2009)

I have joined the Lazarex Cancer Foundation's Team for Life. I will be running (see above) in the 13.1 mile Rock 'n' Roll half-marathon in Seattle, on June 27, 2009. The Rock 'n' Roll marathon series is unique in that it enables a variety of both local and national organization to provide their participants with coaching and training expertise in exchange for raising money to support their favorite cause. While this race will be a major physical challenge for me after 23 years of smoking, I am positive that I will finish. But I need your help to participate and make a difference- even if it is just one life.

Each Team for LIfe participant agrees to raise money to support patient services for those affected by cancer. My fundraising goal is $2000 by May 1, 2009. Please consider making a donation in the name of a loved on who has battled cancer. These names will be written on my shirt the day of the race and as I run for them, they also will cross the finish line with me and share that victory.

If you would like to donate online using your credit card, please visit my Fundraising Website. This is a VeriSign Secure site.

If you are not comfortable with online transactions but would like to donate, please Email me so I may send you the sponsorship form.

All donations to Lazarex Cancer Foundation are 100% tax-deductable.

I know times are tough right now; please donate what you can. What each of us is dealing with is difficult yet nothing like the quest to survive one more day.

Thank you in advance for your support of not only me, but the entire Team for Life and the Lazarex Cancer Foundation. If you have any questions please Email me.

If you would like to learn more about Lazarex Cancer Foundation or to read some of the personal stories that inspired me to participate, visit their website at www.lazarexfoundation.org