Please click on any of the following links that might interest you. They are all stories/news releases from the last month or two that I felt would give you a small idea of how all of your fundraising efforts produce results!
GO TEAM!!
Kami
Links to websites:
Society's Information Resource Center Turns 10
http://www.lls.org/all_news_detail?news_type=1&source_id=7,1&item_id=493041&cat_id=14
Society and Cleveland Clinic Announce Groundbreaking Partnership to Accelerate Drug Approvals
http://www.lls.org/all_news_detail?news_type=1&source_id=7,1&item_id=492805&cat_id=14
Researchers Advancing Blood Cancer Therapies Receive $18.75 Million in Society Grants
http://www.lls.org/all_news_detail?news_type=1&source_id=7,1&item_id=492352&cat_id=14
Cancer Death Rates Continue to Fall
http://www.lls.org/all_news_detail?news_type=1&source_id=5,6,4&item_id=493491&cat_id=14
Gleevec Pioneer Honored for Work http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/news/1191894920188570.xml&coll=7
Daisies Lead Scientists Down Path to New Leukemia Drug
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071002131128.htm
Thalidomide Improves Survival of Multiple Myeloma in Elderly Patients
http://www.lls.org/all_news_detail?news_type=1&source_id=5,6,4&item_id=492585&cat_id=14
First U.S. Clinical Trial Using T-Reg Cells from Cord Blood in Leukemia Treatment Begins
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/09/070905155443.htm
Harvard Researchers Identify Treatment Target in Hodgkin Lymphoma http://www.boston.com/yourlife/health/blog/2007/07/harvard_researc_1.html?p1=email_to_a_friend
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Friday, October 12, 2007
Rebecca
Rebecca's Original Message:
Kai, Toby, and I will be participating in the walk as part of "Team Baby Joseph." Joseph is a toddler in our neighborhood who was born with a rare blood cancer. He is only three months younger than Toby, and he has already known more pain and agony than most people will know in their lifetime. Despite all he has been through Joseph is a smiley happy little boy, who you just can't help but fall in love with. He has recently undergone his third round of very intense chemotherapy in hopes to rid him of his cancer. Hopefully, after his surgery in September to collect tissue samples from his organs, doctors will find him cancer free.
As you all know, I am not exactly the soft touch kind of person, but Joseph and his family's situation has touched me deeply. It is hard for me not to think about how lucky Kai and I are to have a healthy child in Toby, when you see another family having such a difficult time.
A follow-up message sent just last week:
I am pleased to let you all know that Joseph and his parent just received the best possible news -- the surgery to check for cancer traces was negative. This means that Joseph, while still needing precautionary treatments to avoid reoccurrence, is clear of cancer at this time. He will still be check regularly for years to ensure any changes are detected, but he is now on the road to being cancer free.
Thank you again for all of the support, and I hope this news finds you and you families all healthy and happy.
All the best,
Rebecca
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Kai, Toby, and I will be participating in the walk as part of "Team Baby Joseph." Joseph is a toddler in our neighborhood who was born with a rare blood cancer. He is only three months younger than Toby, and he has already known more pain and agony than most people will know in their lifetime. Despite all he has been through Joseph is a smiley happy little boy, who you just can't help but fall in love with. He has recently undergone his third round of very intense chemotherapy in hopes to rid him of his cancer. Hopefully, after his surgery in September to collect tissue samples from his organs, doctors will find him cancer free.
As you all know, I am not exactly the soft touch kind of person, but Joseph and his family's situation has touched me deeply. It is hard for me not to think about how lucky Kai and I are to have a healthy child in Toby, when you see another family having such a difficult time.
A follow-up message sent just last week:
I am pleased to let you all know that Joseph and his parent just received the best possible news -- the surgery to check for cancer traces was negative. This means that Joseph, while still needing precautionary treatments to avoid reoccurrence, is clear of cancer at this time. He will still be check regularly for years to ensure any changes are detected, but he is now on the road to being cancer free.
Thank you again for all of the support, and I hope this news finds you and you families all healthy and happy.
All the best,
Rebecca
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, October 5, 2007
Stephanie Phung
I started this myspace account as an extension of my TNT website in order to be able to blog and tell a little more about my reason for participating in TNT. I also thought it would be a great way to network in the TNT and running community. A little over a month ago, I was just surfing the net and I got the random idea to search through my high school graduating class to see if there were any familiar faces that I hadn't seen on myspace before.
Something about Erin's profile caught my eye. I looked at her pictures and though her face was familiar to me, and though her profile showed that we graduated in the same class, I couldn't remember for sure how we may have known each other. (My guess was probably AP English but I'm not positive.) So I sent her a message. I told her that I read about her leukemia. I said I wasn't sure if she remembered me from high school, but I wanted to let her know that I am running with Team in Training and that I would like to add her as a "myspace friend".
Erin remembered me from High School, (I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not), and was so gracious about my foggy memory of her - as she said after all it has been 11 years. Erin was happy to share her story with me and invite me into her circle of myspace friends. Early in 2007, Erin signed up to participate in Team in Training with her fiance', Dan. Shortly after signing up for the Team, Erin was diagnosed with Acute Myelogeneous Leukemia and became the honored teammate for the Atlanta TNT Chapter where she was planning to train for a marathon.
When I met Erin on myspace, she was in remission and was about to begin an agressive treatment to cure her cancer - a bone marrow transplant. The dates of her transplant could not have been more ironic to me, as they were almost exactly 2 years after my mom began her bone marrow transplant. Erin is almost 3 weeks into her transplant process and continues to fight the symptoms of the transplant, including losing all of her hair, the ulcers in her mouth and throat, and the overall body aches as her body has begun to regenerate a new immune system.
By the time I finish my marathon training, Erin will have a new immune system and will be cured of her Leukemia. From the moment I met Erin she has been an inspiration because of her unending courage and hope for a cure, not only for herself but for others suffering from blood cancers. Erin reminds me that the battle was not lost with my mom. The battle is just beginning.
Stephanie
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Something about Erin's profile caught my eye. I looked at her pictures and though her face was familiar to me, and though her profile showed that we graduated in the same class, I couldn't remember for sure how we may have known each other. (My guess was probably AP English but I'm not positive.) So I sent her a message. I told her that I read about her leukemia. I said I wasn't sure if she remembered me from high school, but I wanted to let her know that I am running with Team in Training and that I would like to add her as a "myspace friend".
Erin remembered me from High School, (I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not), and was so gracious about my foggy memory of her - as she said after all it has been 11 years. Erin was happy to share her story with me and invite me into her circle of myspace friends. Early in 2007, Erin signed up to participate in Team in Training with her fiance', Dan. Shortly after signing up for the Team, Erin was diagnosed with Acute Myelogeneous Leukemia and became the honored teammate for the Atlanta TNT Chapter where she was planning to train for a marathon.
When I met Erin on myspace, she was in remission and was about to begin an agressive treatment to cure her cancer - a bone marrow transplant. The dates of her transplant could not have been more ironic to me, as they were almost exactly 2 years after my mom began her bone marrow transplant. Erin is almost 3 weeks into her transplant process and continues to fight the symptoms of the transplant, including losing all of her hair, the ulcers in her mouth and throat, and the overall body aches as her body has begun to regenerate a new immune system.
By the time I finish my marathon training, Erin will have a new immune system and will be cured of her Leukemia. From the moment I met Erin she has been an inspiration because of her unending courage and hope for a cure, not only for herself but for others suffering from blood cancers. Erin reminds me that the battle was not lost with my mom. The battle is just beginning.
Stephanie
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Rachel Bonistalli
Saturday, August 11, 2007 was a landmark day for me -- I ran the furthest distance I've ever completed -- 14 miles and you all were on my mind keeping my feet moving. My time was very average (2:20:30), but I completed it comfortably and with no issues afterwards. I'm sure many of you are saying to yourselves, how does one complete 14 miles? That leads me to introduce you to my second honored teammate -- Amber Barrante -- because of her I feel fortunate for every stride every time.
Amber's story starts in August 1989 when their family (which also includes my mother's brother Tom Barrante, his wife Luann and Amber's older brother Justin and younger sister Alyson) were on vacation. That was the end of the summer before my senior year of high school. I remember my mother saying Uncle Tom called to say that during their vacation Amber had been listless, running a fever and uncomfortable so they were taking her to the doctor. For much of my cousins' young lives they were plagued with bone tumors that impeded their normal bone growth so they often had operations to reduce the deformity and disability to their joints and bone systems. So, I remember thinking it was probably no big deal compared to that. Never did I think my 8 year-old cousin would have a diagnosis of Acute Lymphomic Leukemia. She immediately started chemo. So while I was worried about stupid high school stuff of how my hair looked (I've always spent a ton of time on my coif) being a cheerleading captain, which college to go to from my acceptances and who I'd go to the senior dinner-dance in the fall and prom in the spring with -- my little cousin was starting a three year chemo treatment plan. I remember thinking, what can I say or do for this child who has had so many challenges already when I've never been confronted with such things?
Well, Alyson who was merely 5 or 6 when Amber's hair and skin were discolored was much more compasisonate than my self-centered teen self was. Amber's hair became yellow, limp, clumpy with her scalp showing where the hair had been depleted and it was just getting worse daily. In my narrow view of the world, bad hair was like death let alone being sick and having no control over that -- I always hated my hair and I was perfectly healthy -- how does a child deal with illness and a crumbling appearance? I will never forget the time we were sitting at dinner and my mother shared what Alyson said to my Aunt Luann. I believe it happened like this: Alyson went to her mother and said "Mom, can I get my hair cut like Amber? Because then she wouldn't feel so different from the other kids." Not sure if that is because Amber endured comments or issues with kids at school when she could go during her treatment. I remember being puzzeled about how to relate to my dear little cousin at this time and being ashamed that her sister so many years my junior knew and was fully willing to, but I struggled trying not to show pity as her appearance was distorted and her day-to-day challenged frightened me. But that kind of compassion at such a young age astounded me and taught me a lesson I carry with me to this day. If I get even close to that in my lifetime, I will have achieved something worthwhile.
So as I progressed through the normal self-centered period of 18 to 21 with trials of going off to college, living in dorms, going to frat parties and figuring out how to do things myself as well as maintain my grades -- Amber fought Leukemia. I'll always remember the relief I felt when we learned she was in remission. It was a joy to watch Amber get back to normal -- she always was a beautfiul girl and she was able to shine again even more brilliantly when her hair grew back. She caught up in school and got to experience high school and got her degree. Today, she is approximately 15 years in remission at the age of 26 living in Pittsburgh working with her degree in recreation.
To this day though, I've gotten so much more from my cousin Amber than I've given. As a child she taught me strength, faith, determination, compassion and giving back to others. Last fall, Amber gave me even more. I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease exposure in September 2006 and I had to stop running in order to get better. Running actually is what depleted my immune system that was already challenged by the undiagnosed Lyme such that I was at nearly walking pneumonia in 3 days after a 10-mile run. I couldn't run for at least 30 days and that was indefinite depending on what my tests said and how I felt. While the doctors ultimately came back and said I didn't have Lyme, I was very sick and recovery was awful going from exhaustion to insomnia and no running. I didn't run from September 16 until February 2007.
So, it's Thanksgiving Day '06 and we're at my uncle's and Amber and I are chatting about work, apartment life, etc... and she aske me how I'm feeling. I share that the toughest thing has been not being able to run. She replied "You know, I'd love to be able to run. It's something you just pull on shoes and go do. With my hip and my knees I never could run. Right now, my hip hurts all the time and I hope having hip surgery before Christmas will make it so I can at least sleep without pain. But, at least I can rock climb and do the other outdoor stuff I love, so it will all work out. And, I'm sure when you're better you'll be running again." Those words have been ringing in my ears to this day and every time I run since the doctors gave me the green light. I'm not just running, I'm using a gift that I have -- one I could take for granted. So, even when I'm tired and it's the last 3/4 mile before finishing 14 and I just want to walk -- I think of Amber, all she has given me, put on a smile and keep moving.
Rachel
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Amber's story starts in August 1989 when their family (which also includes my mother's brother Tom Barrante, his wife Luann and Amber's older brother Justin and younger sister Alyson) were on vacation. That was the end of the summer before my senior year of high school. I remember my mother saying Uncle Tom called to say that during their vacation Amber had been listless, running a fever and uncomfortable so they were taking her to the doctor. For much of my cousins' young lives they were plagued with bone tumors that impeded their normal bone growth so they often had operations to reduce the deformity and disability to their joints and bone systems. So, I remember thinking it was probably no big deal compared to that. Never did I think my 8 year-old cousin would have a diagnosis of Acute Lymphomic Leukemia. She immediately started chemo. So while I was worried about stupid high school stuff of how my hair looked (I've always spent a ton of time on my coif) being a cheerleading captain, which college to go to from my acceptances and who I'd go to the senior dinner-dance in the fall and prom in the spring with -- my little cousin was starting a three year chemo treatment plan. I remember thinking, what can I say or do for this child who has had so many challenges already when I've never been confronted with such things?
Well, Alyson who was merely 5 or 6 when Amber's hair and skin were discolored was much more compasisonate than my self-centered teen self was. Amber's hair became yellow, limp, clumpy with her scalp showing where the hair had been depleted and it was just getting worse daily. In my narrow view of the world, bad hair was like death let alone being sick and having no control over that -- I always hated my hair and I was perfectly healthy -- how does a child deal with illness and a crumbling appearance? I will never forget the time we were sitting at dinner and my mother shared what Alyson said to my Aunt Luann. I believe it happened like this: Alyson went to her mother and said "Mom, can I get my hair cut like Amber? Because then she wouldn't feel so different from the other kids." Not sure if that is because Amber endured comments or issues with kids at school when she could go during her treatment. I remember being puzzeled about how to relate to my dear little cousin at this time and being ashamed that her sister so many years my junior knew and was fully willing to, but I struggled trying not to show pity as her appearance was distorted and her day-to-day challenged frightened me. But that kind of compassion at such a young age astounded me and taught me a lesson I carry with me to this day. If I get even close to that in my lifetime, I will have achieved something worthwhile.
So as I progressed through the normal self-centered period of 18 to 21 with trials of going off to college, living in dorms, going to frat parties and figuring out how to do things myself as well as maintain my grades -- Amber fought Leukemia. I'll always remember the relief I felt when we learned she was in remission. It was a joy to watch Amber get back to normal -- she always was a beautfiul girl and she was able to shine again even more brilliantly when her hair grew back. She caught up in school and got to experience high school and got her degree. Today, she is approximately 15 years in remission at the age of 26 living in Pittsburgh working with her degree in recreation.
To this day though, I've gotten so much more from my cousin Amber than I've given. As a child she taught me strength, faith, determination, compassion and giving back to others. Last fall, Amber gave me even more. I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease exposure in September 2006 and I had to stop running in order to get better. Running actually is what depleted my immune system that was already challenged by the undiagnosed Lyme such that I was at nearly walking pneumonia in 3 days after a 10-mile run. I couldn't run for at least 30 days and that was indefinite depending on what my tests said and how I felt. While the doctors ultimately came back and said I didn't have Lyme, I was very sick and recovery was awful going from exhaustion to insomnia and no running. I didn't run from September 16 until February 2007.
So, it's Thanksgiving Day '06 and we're at my uncle's and Amber and I are chatting about work, apartment life, etc... and she aske me how I'm feeling. I share that the toughest thing has been not being able to run. She replied "You know, I'd love to be able to run. It's something you just pull on shoes and go do. With my hip and my knees I never could run. Right now, my hip hurts all the time and I hope having hip surgery before Christmas will make it so I can at least sleep without pain. But, at least I can rock climb and do the other outdoor stuff I love, so it will all work out. And, I'm sure when you're better you'll be running again." Those words have been ringing in my ears to this day and every time I run since the doctors gave me the green light. I'm not just running, I'm using a gift that I have -- one I could take for granted. So, even when I'm tired and it's the last 3/4 mile before finishing 14 and I just want to walk -- I think of Amber, all she has given me, put on a smile and keep moving.
Rachel
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, September 21, 2007
Lara Joslyn
I wanted to write to tell you about my TNT inspiration. I am running in honor of Walter Lind. Walter is my fiance's father, and he is truly an amazing person.
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March. It has not been an easy battle so far, but he has been an inspiration to his family and friends through it all. Dave, my finance, participated in a TNT triathlon in April.
Dave found out a few weeks before the triathlon about his dad's diagnosisand dedicated his race to his father. So now I am doing the same.
When I am not feeling motivated to run in the morning, I think of Walter and the pain he is in and it helps me get out of bed. When I want to stop running because I am tired or my feet hurt or it is hot (like during our 16 mile run), I think of Walter and remember why I am running in the first place.
Pancreatic cancer is a horrible disease and there is no known cure for it. But Walter and the entire Lind family (nicknamed Team Lind by their friends) are taking it one day at a time and are enjoying their time together.
Lara Joslyn
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March. It has not been an easy battle so far, but he has been an inspiration to his family and friends through it all. Dave, my finance, participated in a TNT triathlon in April.
Dave found out a few weeks before the triathlon about his dad's diagnosisand dedicated his race to his father. So now I am doing the same.
When I am not feeling motivated to run in the morning, I think of Walter and the pain he is in and it helps me get out of bed. When I want to stop running because I am tired or my feet hurt or it is hot (like during our 16 mile run), I think of Walter and remember why I am running in the first place.
Pancreatic cancer is a horrible disease and there is no known cure for it. But Walter and the entire Lind family (nicknamed Team Lind by their friends) are taking it one day at a time and are enjoying their time together.
Lara Joslyn
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, September 14, 2007
Jane Luke
I am running the Nike Women's Marathon with Team in Training in memory of my Aunt Marjory Olson, who passed away three years ago from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.
Aunt Marge lived almost her entire life in Milton, Massachusetts, in the home where she grew up. She never married, and never had children. Therefore, her only sister, my mother, and her family (myself, my 4 siblings and our father), were her family. Since we lived in Northern Virginia, our times with Aunt Marge were limited but precious. Every year, she would be with us for our family vacations, and she always came to Virginia on her birthday and Christmas. Aunt Marge always made the little things in life special. For birthdays and holidays, she would spend endless hours shopping for the perfect gift and card for each and every person. On Christmas Eve, we couldn't wait to help Marge make her traditional Swedish Coffee cake for Christmas morning.
For years, we tried to convince our Aunt to move to Virginia where she would be closer to us and the 13 grandchildren. It wasn't until she was diagnosed with Lymphoma that she finally agreed to leave the only home she ever knew to begin a new chapter of her life here in Virginia. She quickly adjusted to her new surroundings and loved having her nieces, nephew and grand nieces and nephews close by. She truly enjoyed the regular visits and having family close by to take her shopping or to doctors appointments. Unfortunately, our time with Aunt Marge in Virginia was much shorter than anyone expected. Only six months after she moved to Virginia, our loving Aunt Marjory passed away. As difficult as the loss has been for all of us, we cherish the many memories of an aunt who was so loving and family oriented.
I have never been a runner, but was inspired by friends who were taking on this challenge, but also by the Team in Training Organization. I am so happy to take on the physical challenge, but also to be able to raise funds for such a wonderful organization, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Jane
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Aunt Marge lived almost her entire life in Milton, Massachusetts, in the home where she grew up. She never married, and never had children. Therefore, her only sister, my mother, and her family (myself, my 4 siblings and our father), were her family. Since we lived in Northern Virginia, our times with Aunt Marge were limited but precious. Every year, she would be with us for our family vacations, and she always came to Virginia on her birthday and Christmas. Aunt Marge always made the little things in life special. For birthdays and holidays, she would spend endless hours shopping for the perfect gift and card for each and every person. On Christmas Eve, we couldn't wait to help Marge make her traditional Swedish Coffee cake for Christmas morning.
For years, we tried to convince our Aunt to move to Virginia where she would be closer to us and the 13 grandchildren. It wasn't until she was diagnosed with Lymphoma that she finally agreed to leave the only home she ever knew to begin a new chapter of her life here in Virginia. She quickly adjusted to her new surroundings and loved having her nieces, nephew and grand nieces and nephews close by. She truly enjoyed the regular visits and having family close by to take her shopping or to doctors appointments. Unfortunately, our time with Aunt Marge in Virginia was much shorter than anyone expected. Only six months after she moved to Virginia, our loving Aunt Marjory passed away. As difficult as the loss has been for all of us, we cherish the many memories of an aunt who was so loving and family oriented.
I have never been a runner, but was inspired by friends who were taking on this challenge, but also by the Team in Training Organization. I am so happy to take on the physical challenge, but also to be able to raise funds for such a wonderful organization, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Jane
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, September 7, 2007
John Park, Jr.
It's hard to believe that it has been seven years since our son Daniel was diagnosed with marginal zone monocytoid B-cell lymphoma. During this time, we have had wonderful resources available to us for Dan's prompt diagnosis, treatment (radiation), and follow-up. Thankfully, there has been no indication of a return of Dan's cancer. He's a 2006 UVA graduate. If you visit Charlottesville, stop into The Virginian, the restaurant Dan is co-managing.
It was an incredible shock when we first learned, in the Spring of his junior year of high school, that Dan had cancer. The diagnosis was made after a series of events: an enlarged lymph node under Dan's neck that he brought to our attention (we thought it was acne); Dan's pediatrician who "thought it was nothing" but referred him to a specialist; the specialist who "thought it was nothing" but decided to remove and examine it to be safe; the pathologists who couldn't visually detect a problem but referred it on for further tests; test results that detected an "anomaly"; and finally, diagnosis by a well-respected oncologist at NIH.
The roller coaster continued as we found out more about the cancer Dan had and how to treat it. Marginal zone monocytoid B-cell lymphoma had only recently (within the last 10 years) been identified as a cancer, and it was extremely unusual to be found in someone Dan's age (it usually was found in older women). As a result, there was no widely-accepted treatment protocol. We felt uncomfortable having Dan be treated by a doctor who had never seen this cancer or had not treated this cancer in a person Dan's age. So, Pam and I became very familiar with various hospitals and oncologists in hospitals around the country in our search for proper treatment. Ultimately, we found Dr. Tanya Trippett at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Hospital in New York City. Not only was Dr. Trippett familiar with marginal zone monocytoid B-cell lymphoma, she was tracking the disease in the young adult population. Together we decided to have Dan receive 18 days of radiation treatment at Johns Hopkins University Hospital and to involve Dr. Trippett when interpreting all follow-up scans. In the six years of follow-up, there have been many moments of concern (several false positive results early on and a scare just this past summer), but we have been blessed by the fact that Dan can look forward to a life without cancer.
Like any family effected by cancer, we learned more about cancer than we ever wanted to know. From the whole process, we have several observations:
- As bad as it was for us, there are many families which are dealing with much more dire situations. The first time (actually, every time) we visited the pediatric oncology ward, we were struck by the courage exhibited by all the children battling life threatening diseases, and their families who are grasping at any advances in knowledge or technology that will save their child. We essentially arrived at the ward with a 6'4" healthy-looking teenager with all his hair; for many others, it is a daily fight to live.
- You don't know how much support is available for you until you really need it. Our friends and family were wonderful and supportive to us. We didn't realize it at the time, but the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society funded significant research that was directly helping the understanding of Dan's cancer, and the knowledge and technology for his treatment.
Pam and I will never be able to express how blessed we feel having Dan successfully treated. It is for this reason, and in memory of Pam's father, I. Mead Hayward, who died of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 1991, that we have participated and will continue to participate in TNT.
John
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Kristen Burke
I am running in memory of a friend from college. There are actually 6 of us training to run the Nike Women's Marathon in memory of Kelly.
On Mother's Day 2007, Kelly lost her eight year battle against Hodgkin lymphoma at age 36. Kelly graduated from Virginia Tech in 1993 and then went on to receive her Masters of Education at the College of William and Mary in 1994. Kelly taught second grade for one year and first grade for eight years in the Fairfax County (VA) Public School system. The years she taught were years doing what she loved best - working with children. Kelly was a beautiful, loving and inspiring person who always had a smile on her face and a passion to help others. A week each summer she worked as a counselor at Camp Fantastic, a camp for children with cancer. In addition, she tirelessly raised funds and awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by participating in several marathons and the annual Light the Night Walk.
Kelly was known for her smile and determination to beat her disease. She never complained nor gave up. When the doctors told her she had 2 – 3 months left to live, she responded "I'll see you in 4". We learned so much from Kelly but most importantly she taught us: Strength, Courage, Love, Determination, Patience, Peace and to BELIEVE. Kelly was an amazing person who touched so many lives.
Now it's the privilege of a group of Kelly's Virginia Tech friends to lessen the ache of our heavy hearts by challenging ourselves and raising money to honor her memory and support those currently battling a blood cancer. We are training to compete in the Nike Women's Marathon - a race Kelly had wanted to do. We have teamed up with Team in Training to raise awareness and funds for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma.
The following is a poem that Kelly wrote about the "Pros" of having cancer:
Pros
I've learned that I don't have to live alone in my own hell.
I've learned to accept help- and to ask for it as well.
I've learned that my loved ones feel just as helpless as I do.
I've learned from the wisdom of those sharing my experience that what I feel is nothing new.
I've learned that I have a lot to give.
I've learned that I have a lot of life left to live.
I've learned to prioritize the people and places I want to see.
I've learned to be less critical, especially of me.
I've learned I've an amazing amount of people in my life who truly care.
I've learned too, the ones who will really be there.
I've learned the genuine importance of my friends and family.
I've learned that I am stronger than I ever thought I could be.
I've learned that it's okay, not a fault to need someone.
I've learned that life is about people when all's said and done.
I've learned that with their support, the battle's not all uphill.
I've learned that this disease doesn't have to kill.
I've learned, in fact, that cancer Can be overcome.
I know it, because this time, I have won.
-Kelly Linderman
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
On Mother's Day 2007, Kelly lost her eight year battle against Hodgkin lymphoma at age 36. Kelly graduated from Virginia Tech in 1993 and then went on to receive her Masters of Education at the College of William and Mary in 1994. Kelly taught second grade for one year and first grade for eight years in the Fairfax County (VA) Public School system. The years she taught were years doing what she loved best - working with children. Kelly was a beautiful, loving and inspiring person who always had a smile on her face and a passion to help others. A week each summer she worked as a counselor at Camp Fantastic, a camp for children with cancer. In addition, she tirelessly raised funds and awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by participating in several marathons and the annual Light the Night Walk.
Kelly was known for her smile and determination to beat her disease. She never complained nor gave up. When the doctors told her she had 2 – 3 months left to live, she responded "I'll see you in 4". We learned so much from Kelly but most importantly she taught us: Strength, Courage, Love, Determination, Patience, Peace and to BELIEVE. Kelly was an amazing person who touched so many lives.
Now it's the privilege of a group of Kelly's Virginia Tech friends to lessen the ache of our heavy hearts by challenging ourselves and raising money to honor her memory and support those currently battling a blood cancer. We are training to compete in the Nike Women's Marathon - a race Kelly had wanted to do. We have teamed up with Team in Training to raise awareness and funds for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma.
The following is a poem that Kelly wrote about the "Pros" of having cancer:
Pros
I've learned that I don't have to live alone in my own hell.
I've learned to accept help- and to ask for it as well.
I've learned that my loved ones feel just as helpless as I do.
I've learned from the wisdom of those sharing my experience that what I feel is nothing new.
I've learned that I have a lot to give.
I've learned that I have a lot of life left to live.
I've learned to prioritize the people and places I want to see.
I've learned to be less critical, especially of me.
I've learned I've an amazing amount of people in my life who truly care.
I've learned too, the ones who will really be there.
I've learned the genuine importance of my friends and family.
I've learned that I am stronger than I ever thought I could be.
I've learned that it's okay, not a fault to need someone.
I've learned that life is about people when all's said and done.
I've learned that with their support, the battle's not all uphill.
I've learned that this disease doesn't have to kill.
I've learned, in fact, that cancer Can be overcome.
I know it, because this time, I have won.
-Kelly Linderman
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Shannon Royce
A year ago I was recovering from six rounds of chemo for non-hodgkins follicular lymphoma. I was fortunate that we caught it in stage one and I was able to begin treatment quickly.
Going through chemo was a life altering experience. I will never forget going for my treatments and seeing folks who were clearly so much sicker than I. At two of my treatments, patients went into respiratory arrest and needed emergency attention. Even in my sickest moments, I had hope of feeling better soon. Some of the patients around me did not have that same hope.
One of the difficult side effects of chemo for me was that I could not even walk around the block with my husband without being winded and having heart palpitations. As a faithful exerciser most of my life, this was very frustrating. In the midst of this, I had a friend who trained with TNT on my behalf. She ran for me when I was struggling to even walk around the block.
This year, I am training for the Marine Corps Marathon on behalf of those who can't. It is a reminder to me of how much I have to be grateful for and how blessed I am to be alive.
I run with the hope that one day there will be a cure.
Shannon
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Going through chemo was a life altering experience. I will never forget going for my treatments and seeing folks who were clearly so much sicker than I. At two of my treatments, patients went into respiratory arrest and needed emergency attention. Even in my sickest moments, I had hope of feeling better soon. Some of the patients around me did not have that same hope.
One of the difficult side effects of chemo for me was that I could not even walk around the block with my husband without being winded and having heart palpitations. As a faithful exerciser most of my life, this was very frustrating. In the midst of this, I had a friend who trained with TNT on my behalf. She ran for me when I was struggling to even walk around the block.
This year, I am training for the Marine Corps Marathon on behalf of those who can't. It is a reminder to me of how much I have to be grateful for and how blessed I am to be alive.
I run with the hope that one day there will be a cure.
Shannon
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, August 17, 2007
Bob Garman
We got involved with Team in Training 4 years ago in honor of Muriel's younger brother Gerard. He was in his early 40s when diagnosed with colon cancer - during treatment they found it had spread to his liver. After 18 month battle, he passed away leaving a wife and young daughter behind.
Year two I found out a fellow retired AF communicator, Lt Col Don Toenjes, was suffering from Mantle Cell Lymphoma and was getting experimental stem cell treatment. We became friends with him and his wife Norma and through their friends and family were able to raise a lot of money for TNT. Since then they have remained loyal donors. His cancer is in remission but still uncurable.
Year three I ran in honor of a deceased two year old from Leukemia (Calvin Keener) who was the son of two AF Majors stationed in St Louis and a 16 year old son of a friend of Norma and Don's who was still getting cancer treatment. His name was Andy Pickerel and him and his family lived in Iowa. Tragically, Andy passed away about 2 weeks before the VA Beach Half Marathon. His family had orange wristbands made for friends and family during his treatment and they were nice enough to send me ten for my teammates that year - the inscription read: BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS - Duet. 31:6 (AWP). For both VA Beach and Marine Corp Marathon I wore the purple TNT band for Calvin and the orange band for Andy - helped a lot when the next hill seemed a little steep or the weather was a little hot. My wife also became a more active TNT member by joining as a walker for Va Beach and doing her first endurance event ever!
This year I am running in honor of my Mom who is a two-time survivor of breast cancer and Muriel is still walking for her brother who she misses very much. She also manages a Curves gym and several of her members have friends and family fighting cancer.
Go Team,
Bob
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Year two I found out a fellow retired AF communicator, Lt Col Don Toenjes, was suffering from Mantle Cell Lymphoma and was getting experimental stem cell treatment. We became friends with him and his wife Norma and through their friends and family were able to raise a lot of money for TNT. Since then they have remained loyal donors. His cancer is in remission but still uncurable.
Year three I ran in honor of a deceased two year old from Leukemia (Calvin Keener) who was the son of two AF Majors stationed in St Louis and a 16 year old son of a friend of Norma and Don's who was still getting cancer treatment. His name was Andy Pickerel and him and his family lived in Iowa. Tragically, Andy passed away about 2 weeks before the VA Beach Half Marathon. His family had orange wristbands made for friends and family during his treatment and they were nice enough to send me ten for my teammates that year - the inscription read: BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS - Duet. 31:6 (AWP). For both VA Beach and Marine Corp Marathon I wore the purple TNT band for Calvin and the orange band for Andy - helped a lot when the next hill seemed a little steep or the weather was a little hot. My wife also became a more active TNT member by joining as a walker for Va Beach and doing her first endurance event ever!
This year I am running in honor of my Mom who is a two-time survivor of breast cancer and Muriel is still walking for her brother who she misses very much. She also manages a Curves gym and several of her members have friends and family fighting cancer.
Go Team,
Bob
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Sara Ward
Originally witten on August 8, 2007:
I felt very fortunate to spent time with the patients families at the TNT Picnic this past Saturday evening. I overheard that one little girl said she was looking forward to it all week. I met siblings of a little baby with leukemia. I am not sure if the baby is a boy or girl, but his or her siblings were so happy to see us and we sang Happy Birthday to Nathanial, who was turning Three yesterday - he was one very happy little boy!! These kids are in the hospital every day with their family and their time is not spent doing happy normal little kid things. I think it was great they had something fun to look forward to! Another little girl, Malika, loved the animal paper plates and little treats and she tried to share them with everyone! Another 13 year old boy, Donavan was there with his Dad. Donavan's 16 year old sister was in the hospital and his Mom was sleeping in her room. Ted, their father told me there were families who had it much much worse.
Other families, nurses and staff came in and out of the picnic. Everyone really appreciated the lovely picnic dinner set out for them - even the teenage girl who said something like "I couldnt eat all the fat in the frosted brownies" came back three times for more.....
I'll try not to go on and on like I am tempted to, but I just wanted to say that I felt so lucky that I was able to spend Saturday helping to get food together for this event. And I was so glad that I was able to be there at Georgetown and spend time with the families. They are special people and they are the reason that we get up so early and put in our mileage and raise our funds - to beat blood cancers!
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
I felt very fortunate to spent time with the patients families at the TNT Picnic this past Saturday evening. I overheard that one little girl said she was looking forward to it all week. I met siblings of a little baby with leukemia. I am not sure if the baby is a boy or girl, but his or her siblings were so happy to see us and we sang Happy Birthday to Nathanial, who was turning Three yesterday - he was one very happy little boy!! These kids are in the hospital every day with their family and their time is not spent doing happy normal little kid things. I think it was great they had something fun to look forward to! Another little girl, Malika, loved the animal paper plates and little treats and she tried to share them with everyone! Another 13 year old boy, Donavan was there with his Dad. Donavan's 16 year old sister was in the hospital and his Mom was sleeping in her room. Ted, their father told me there were families who had it much much worse.
Other families, nurses and staff came in and out of the picnic. Everyone really appreciated the lovely picnic dinner set out for them - even the teenage girl who said something like "I couldnt eat all the fat in the frosted brownies" came back three times for more.....
I'll try not to go on and on like I am tempted to, but I just wanted to say that I felt so lucky that I was able to spend Saturday helping to get food together for this event. And I was so glad that I was able to be there at Georgetown and spend time with the families. They are special people and they are the reason that we get up so early and put in our mileage and raise our funds - to beat blood cancers!
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Monday, July 30, 2007
Susan Calarco
Originally written on July 30, 2007:
My father spent 23 years in the Air Force while I was growing up. As a result, “home” never really stuck. We moved from place to place and I have never really been “from” anywhere. Because of this environment, I got to know my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins on more of a surface level growing up. They were simply the people who lived in New York that we would visit once or twice a year and on the rare occasion, they would make the trek to Nebraska or Ohio or North Dakota for a visit.
I was very satisfied with this relationship because I guess I did not know any differently. I grew up, went to college and law school, and then entered the Navy. I still lived the nomadic life and was again content to know my family from a bit of a distance.
However, in 2004, my mom’s brother, my uncle Doug was diagnosed with Leukemia. This devastating news suddenly brought my family closer than it had ever been. My cousin Laura–Doug’s daughter–began to keep me updated on his well-being and his progress. In early 2005 I deployed to Iraq. My updates from home were always appreciated, but Laura’s emails were the correspondence I could not wait to receive. While in Iraq, she told me of my uncle’s ups and downs and struggles and triumphs.
When I returned home from in late 2005, I came home to what I thought was great news–uncle Doug had received a bone marrow transplant and was on his way towards recovery. Unfortunately, in the end, he was not able to win his battle.
Just three days after Christmas in 2005, my uncle Doug passed away.
My first event with TNT was with the Rhode Island Chapter–I participated in the Philadelphia Triathlon in June 2006. On the day of the race, every single member of that side of my family, to include Doug’s wife and his three children, were there to cheer me on. It was more emotional than I had ever imagined it would be and I finally realized what it was like to be close to these members of my family.
While Doug’s loss has been hard on my family, I am grateful that it gave me the opportunity to connect with my cousin, and the rest of my family, in a way I had never known before.
Good things do come out of sometimes very difficult circumstances.
Thanks,
Susan
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Donna Marino
Last year I joined my good friend Denise on the route of the Marine Corp Marathon and ran 8miles with her. As I stood on the sidelines waiting to find her, I met a number of peoplecheering the runners and they all had one thing in common..they all said "What would possess someone to run 26.2 miles?"
Okay, maybe it's a because it's thier kind of thing, or simply because by joining upwith Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training, I can raise money for a cause near anddear to my heart, and achieve a personal goal of running a marathon.
TNT is The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's largest fundraising program, bringing in over $73million this past year alone. Each participant in the program pledges to raise a certain amountof money during the 4-5 months they train for their event.
Every five minutes, someone in the United States learns that they have leukemia, lymphoma, ormyeloma, and every 10 minutes, a child or adult dies form one of these diseases. While more andmore people are becoming survivors, there is still no cure.
I won't be able to train for this alone, and I would be honored if you would help me. My goal isto raise $3300 by August 27. I invite you to be part of my goal.
I am training for a "doubleheader"… two events this fall: the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach and the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington DC. All of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia and lymphoma from taking more lives.
I'm completing this event in honor of all those who are battling blood cancers but more specifically in memory of my father, Dan DePasquale, who died of leukemia at the age of 43. He initially went to the doctor on the advice on my grandmother, who told him "his color wasn't right". This was Mother's Day, 1967; he died the following August. I was eight years old. My dad, as well as others battling this disease, are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!
Thanks for your support. See you at the finish line!
Donna
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Okay, maybe it's a because it's thier kind of thing, or simply because by joining upwith Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training, I can raise money for a cause near anddear to my heart, and achieve a personal goal of running a marathon.
TNT is The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's largest fundraising program, bringing in over $73million this past year alone. Each participant in the program pledges to raise a certain amountof money during the 4-5 months they train for their event.
Every five minutes, someone in the United States learns that they have leukemia, lymphoma, ormyeloma, and every 10 minutes, a child or adult dies form one of these diseases. While more andmore people are becoming survivors, there is still no cure.
I won't be able to train for this alone, and I would be honored if you would help me. My goal isto raise $3300 by August 27. I invite you to be part of my goal.
I am training for a "doubleheader"… two events this fall: the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach and the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington DC. All of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia and lymphoma from taking more lives.
I'm completing this event in honor of all those who are battling blood cancers but more specifically in memory of my father, Dan DePasquale, who died of leukemia at the age of 43. He initially went to the doctor on the advice on my grandmother, who told him "his color wasn't right". This was Mother's Day, 1967; he died the following August. I was eight years old. My dad, as well as others battling this disease, are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!
Thanks for your support. See you at the finish line!
Donna
Click here to return to Chuck’s Official Training Website
Friday, July 20, 2007
Rachel Bonistalli
Originall written on July 20, 2007:
As I shared in my previous message, my cousin John Bonistalli is living with Leukemia. He wakes up each day like the rest of us with a smile for his wife and beautiful daughters and kind words for everyone, but has something a little extra weighing on him as he goes through his day -- he is fighting a battle to keep his Leukemia in remission. This is a battle that started on April 4, 2003 as John was proud to be smoke free for two years and his dear wife Dana was expecting their second child.
John had been fighting chronic sinus infections for several months and the doctor suspected it was a deviated septum so he had an appointment to check it and discuss repairing it. John shared "My doctor said I looked tired and he decided to run some routine blood work. I anticipated it would say I was, like usual, a little anemic. The blood work came back with an extremely high white cell count, but he didn't want to worry me so he ordered a second CBC. The results were not a fluke."
John continued, "I found myself just moments later that morning sitting in an oncologist's office with my mother by my side. Unfortunately my wife, Dana, was sadly sitting in another doctor's office at the same time -- her obstetrician's. She would soon learn that she was having a miscarriage. This would be our second loss. We had been so blessed to have a beautiful 2½ year old daughter (Isabella) and we hoped that someday we would be able to provide her with a sibling to share her life with. My mother and I were soon given the fateful news -- that I had Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). By this time, Dana had joined us in the doctor's office and we all cried together. We were told that, without treatment, my life expectancy was 3 to 5 years."
That was John's dark day, but family and friends quickly came to John's aid and his best friend Chris gave him the phrase that helped him start his campaign against Leukemia "The rally flags are up, we are heading into battle." John was determined not to lie down and let cancer ruin his life.
Then light began to shine through the darkness. A new oral drug, approved in 2001, was showing tremendous results with CML patients. He soon began that drug, Gleevec. Within a year, John was in remission and we had a big party. In 2005, John and Dana were again blessed with new life in the arrival of Amelia (Mia). John's prognosis is with continued treatment with Gleevec and without unforeseen complications, he could maintain his remission for 40 years.
So, with my cousin in my heart and the many who can benefit from my efforts on my mind, I train on -- strides to save lives.
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
As I shared in my previous message, my cousin John Bonistalli is living with Leukemia. He wakes up each day like the rest of us with a smile for his wife and beautiful daughters and kind words for everyone, but has something a little extra weighing on him as he goes through his day -- he is fighting a battle to keep his Leukemia in remission. This is a battle that started on April 4, 2003 as John was proud to be smoke free for two years and his dear wife Dana was expecting their second child.
John had been fighting chronic sinus infections for several months and the doctor suspected it was a deviated septum so he had an appointment to check it and discuss repairing it. John shared "My doctor said I looked tired and he decided to run some routine blood work. I anticipated it would say I was, like usual, a little anemic. The blood work came back with an extremely high white cell count, but he didn't want to worry me so he ordered a second CBC. The results were not a fluke."
John continued, "I found myself just moments later that morning sitting in an oncologist's office with my mother by my side. Unfortunately my wife, Dana, was sadly sitting in another doctor's office at the same time -- her obstetrician's. She would soon learn that she was having a miscarriage. This would be our second loss. We had been so blessed to have a beautiful 2½ year old daughter (Isabella) and we hoped that someday we would be able to provide her with a sibling to share her life with. My mother and I were soon given the fateful news -- that I had Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). By this time, Dana had joined us in the doctor's office and we all cried together. We were told that, without treatment, my life expectancy was 3 to 5 years."
That was John's dark day, but family and friends quickly came to John's aid and his best friend Chris gave him the phrase that helped him start his campaign against Leukemia "The rally flags are up, we are heading into battle." John was determined not to lie down and let cancer ruin his life.
Then light began to shine through the darkness. A new oral drug, approved in 2001, was showing tremendous results with CML patients. He soon began that drug, Gleevec. Within a year, John was in remission and we had a big party. In 2005, John and Dana were again blessed with new life in the arrival of Amelia (Mia). John's prognosis is with continued treatment with Gleevec and without unforeseen complications, he could maintain his remission for 40 years.
So, with my cousin in my heart and the many who can benefit from my efforts on my mind, I train on -- strides to save lives.
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Stephanie Phung
Originally written on July 12, 2007:
Back in January I accompanied my husband Michael on his trip to Miami to cheer him on as he completed a goal he had been preparing for since October 2006; the ING Miami Marathon. Once we arrived, the excitement was so overwhelming, that on a whim, I decided to join in, and I signed up for the 1/2 marathon. I knew good and well that there was no way I'd be able to do much more than walk most of it, however I still participated and crossed the finish line with a time of well over three hours.
The experience of participating in the half marathon in Miami changed my perspective on my own physical endurance. As I pounded the pavement through the Art Deco District of South Beach, with the early morning sun the sun breaking through the clouds, and the ocean breeze cooling me, I felt a calming presence around me. I looked up at the clouds above me and all I could think of was how much my mom would love this moment. How beautiful everything around me was and how excited she would be to know what I was doing. It was at that moment that I was inspired to keep doing it.
As you may know, in March 2003, my mom, Betsy McPhail, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. For many days after my mom received her diagnosis, I spent at least an hour on the phone with her each night. It seemed that the physical distance between us was too great and no amount of time talking could heal it. The truth of the situation was beginning to sink in and I began to realize that her illness could be fatal. There was one conversation we had that continues to stick in my mind: "Mamma, I don't want you to die."
She said to me, "Sweetie, Idon't want to die either, but if it's God's plan to take me, at least I will go down fighting. I will try everything possible. Even if the doctors can't save me, maybe something they learn from me will help find the cure for someone else. Maybe that is what God meant for me."
As it turned out my mom went through many new and experimental treatments including conjugated monoclonal antibody treatments. These treatments would not have been available to her if it were not for the research, information, and patient services provided by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Since 2003, I have been involved in raising money and volunteering for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. When I returned home from my trip to Miami, I began researching opportunities to continue participating in activities with the Society and incorporate my new found inspiration in long-distance running. As a result of my research I found that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society coordinates a half-marathon in VirginiaBeach every fall; in addition the Society offers their program Team inTraining that is the number one endurance training program in the country. In exchange for valuable funds raised for the Society, TNT provides participants with a comprehensive training program led by experienced coaches who train runners, walkers, cyclists, skaters, and triathletes to complete events in exciting locations around the world.
For the past month and a half instead of sleeping in and enjoying waking up to the warm noon-day sun streaming in my bedroom window, I wake up at 7:00 AM to join my Team in Training teammates for our weekly group run. Last week, I met the 6 mile mark for my training, which is almost half-way for the half-marathon in Virginia Beach. We also had a special picnic after our run in which we met our honored teammates, and I shared with my pace group the story and memories of my personal honored teammate, my mom. It was at that time that I made a commitment to go all the way with my commitment and I will be, in addition to running the half marathon in Virginia Beach on September 2, 2007, running the full Marine Corp Marathon in Washington, DC on October 28, 2007.
This may seem crazy to some of you, but in reality, running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to what patients with blood related cancers go through on a daily basis. By signing up to run the Rock n Roll 1/2 Marathon and the Marine CorpFull Marathon, I have committed myself to run 13.1 miles plus 26.2miles, and I have pledged to raise $3,300 for the Society. I will be running in memory of my mom, as well as for the other honored teammatesin my local area.
My official training website:
http://www.active.com/donate/tntnca04/smphung (Click the green arrow to watch the slide show)
My official trainingspace:
http://www.myspace.com/mcphails1
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Back in January I accompanied my husband Michael on his trip to Miami to cheer him on as he completed a goal he had been preparing for since October 2006; the ING Miami Marathon. Once we arrived, the excitement was so overwhelming, that on a whim, I decided to join in, and I signed up for the 1/2 marathon. I knew good and well that there was no way I'd be able to do much more than walk most of it, however I still participated and crossed the finish line with a time of well over three hours.
The experience of participating in the half marathon in Miami changed my perspective on my own physical endurance. As I pounded the pavement through the Art Deco District of South Beach, with the early morning sun the sun breaking through the clouds, and the ocean breeze cooling me, I felt a calming presence around me. I looked up at the clouds above me and all I could think of was how much my mom would love this moment. How beautiful everything around me was and how excited she would be to know what I was doing. It was at that moment that I was inspired to keep doing it.
As you may know, in March 2003, my mom, Betsy McPhail, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. For many days after my mom received her diagnosis, I spent at least an hour on the phone with her each night. It seemed that the physical distance between us was too great and no amount of time talking could heal it. The truth of the situation was beginning to sink in and I began to realize that her illness could be fatal. There was one conversation we had that continues to stick in my mind: "Mamma, I don't want you to die."
She said to me, "Sweetie, Idon't want to die either, but if it's God's plan to take me, at least I will go down fighting. I will try everything possible. Even if the doctors can't save me, maybe something they learn from me will help find the cure for someone else. Maybe that is what God meant for me."
As it turned out my mom went through many new and experimental treatments including conjugated monoclonal antibody treatments. These treatments would not have been available to her if it were not for the research, information, and patient services provided by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Since 2003, I have been involved in raising money and volunteering for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. When I returned home from my trip to Miami, I began researching opportunities to continue participating in activities with the Society and incorporate my new found inspiration in long-distance running. As a result of my research I found that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society coordinates a half-marathon in VirginiaBeach every fall; in addition the Society offers their program Team inTraining that is the number one endurance training program in the country. In exchange for valuable funds raised for the Society, TNT provides participants with a comprehensive training program led by experienced coaches who train runners, walkers, cyclists, skaters, and triathletes to complete events in exciting locations around the world.
For the past month and a half instead of sleeping in and enjoying waking up to the warm noon-day sun streaming in my bedroom window, I wake up at 7:00 AM to join my Team in Training teammates for our weekly group run. Last week, I met the 6 mile mark for my training, which is almost half-way for the half-marathon in Virginia Beach. We also had a special picnic after our run in which we met our honored teammates, and I shared with my pace group the story and memories of my personal honored teammate, my mom. It was at that time that I made a commitment to go all the way with my commitment and I will be, in addition to running the half marathon in Virginia Beach on September 2, 2007, running the full Marine Corp Marathon in Washington, DC on October 28, 2007.
This may seem crazy to some of you, but in reality, running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to what patients with blood related cancers go through on a daily basis. By signing up to run the Rock n Roll 1/2 Marathon and the Marine CorpFull Marathon, I have committed myself to run 13.1 miles plus 26.2miles, and I have pledged to raise $3,300 for the Society. I will be running in memory of my mom, as well as for the other honored teammatesin my local area.
My official training website:
http://www.active.com/donate/tntnca04/smphung (Click the green arrow to watch the slide show)
My official trainingspace:
http://www.myspace.com/mcphails1
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Thursday, July 5, 2007
The Reasons Why We Run
Thanks for visiting my website. I hope you will contribute to my effort to raise money to fight blood cancers.
While this is a personal mission for me -- my grandmother died of Leukemia when I was very young -- my loss feels so small compared with the stories I hear from the folks I run with every Saturday.
I wanted to share some of these stories with you on this blog. I hope you will read them and realize the great need to defeat these terrible diseases that afflict so many people every year.
Chuck
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
While this is a personal mission for me -- my grandmother died of Leukemia when I was very young -- my loss feels so small compared with the stories I hear from the folks I run with every Saturday.
I wanted to share some of these stories with you on this blog. I hope you will read them and realize the great need to defeat these terrible diseases that afflict so many people every year.
Chuck
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Monday, July 2, 2007
Ethan Avery
Originally written October 31, 2006:
We thought it was strange that Megan, our 3 1/2 year old, preferred to stay home on Halloween instead of trick or treating in the neighborhood despite my offer to carry her the whole way. She laid on the couch complaining of knee pain and hadn't walked for the three previous days. After a barrage of doctor's visits leading up to Halloween we had ruled out just about all possibilities. Then she developed a fever Halloween night and tested positive for Strep. Our doctor commented that some rare forms of Strep include joint pain. We were relieved to hear this and started her on Amoxicillin. Well, her joint pain worsened and the amoxicllin had no effect on the fever for three days - out parental instincts were telling us something was amiss.
The evening of November 2, 2006 at 7:30pm, my wife and I learned that the mysterious symptoms of our 3 1/2 year old was start of ALL, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Since then we've been inpatient for 4 weeks, had 13 spinal taps, 6 marrow aspirates, MRI's, CT scans, bone scans and countless clinic visits. That first night in the hospital the nurses warned us not to touch Megan's urine due to the toxicity levels of the chemo in her veins. She had to revert back to diapers since any movement to her joints was excruciating. Ironically, going back to diapers appeared to be harder to endure for a proud, potty trained young lady than the effects of the chemo.
I'll never forget the feeling when my wife, Christina, and I returned to the curtained waiting area at Shady Grove ER to see Megan again after being told she has cancer. Despite our best efforts to compose ourselves, Christina and I were sobbing, both of us kneeling beside Megan's bed making feeble attempts to explain to her what was happening. Megan began patting our heads telling us it would be all right. I had never felt more alone and scared. On top of this Megan was asking if we could go to the park the next day since she feeling better. Little did she know earlier administered Morphine taking her pain away temporarily. We then told her the park would have to wait.
As we entered into the uncertain world of cancer, I was struck by the number of positives that sprang from this Hell. First, I experienced a depth of love from my family and friends I never knew existed. Also, Megan has continued to impress us with her fight and resolve to lick cancer. After the shock of the news, I started realizing my network of support grew exponentially. Neighbors we hardly spoke to, except for an occasional wave, came over to share their cancer stories and offers of support. Relationships with family members from around the globe have been rekindled in the face of this challenge. I've told those people around me how much I care for and love them - something I know I wouldn't have done had this not happened.
As of this writing, we are almost 8 months into a 30 month treatment. We've had several scary moments and days-long periods in which we are waiting anxiously for test results to rule out yucky, potentially life long side effects of her treatment. There are way too many people to thank here for helping us get to this point. We are uncertain what is in store for Megan. When doubt creeps in, I recall a lyric from Elton John's song Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters - "I thank the Lord there are people out there like you". We are so grateful for the people we have found, including TNT. When I go out to run, Megan will occasionally ask "Are you and your friends running to beat cancer?" and I respond, "All of us are." Then on one occasion before I walked out the door she said with a furrowed brow "It's showtime baby!" Inspiration is not an issue!
I'd like thank all of those involved in TNT, coaches, team captains and runners, that give people a resource to fight back against blood cancers. It's very empowering and has both mental and physical benefits.
Ethan Avery, proud father of Megan Avery!
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
We thought it was strange that Megan, our 3 1/2 year old, preferred to stay home on Halloween instead of trick or treating in the neighborhood despite my offer to carry her the whole way. She laid on the couch complaining of knee pain and hadn't walked for the three previous days. After a barrage of doctor's visits leading up to Halloween we had ruled out just about all possibilities. Then she developed a fever Halloween night and tested positive for Strep. Our doctor commented that some rare forms of Strep include joint pain. We were relieved to hear this and started her on Amoxicillin. Well, her joint pain worsened and the amoxicllin had no effect on the fever for three days - out parental instincts were telling us something was amiss.
The evening of November 2, 2006 at 7:30pm, my wife and I learned that the mysterious symptoms of our 3 1/2 year old was start of ALL, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Since then we've been inpatient for 4 weeks, had 13 spinal taps, 6 marrow aspirates, MRI's, CT scans, bone scans and countless clinic visits. That first night in the hospital the nurses warned us not to touch Megan's urine due to the toxicity levels of the chemo in her veins. She had to revert back to diapers since any movement to her joints was excruciating. Ironically, going back to diapers appeared to be harder to endure for a proud, potty trained young lady than the effects of the chemo.
I'll never forget the feeling when my wife, Christina, and I returned to the curtained waiting area at Shady Grove ER to see Megan again after being told she has cancer. Despite our best efforts to compose ourselves, Christina and I were sobbing, both of us kneeling beside Megan's bed making feeble attempts to explain to her what was happening. Megan began patting our heads telling us it would be all right. I had never felt more alone and scared. On top of this Megan was asking if we could go to the park the next day since she feeling better. Little did she know earlier administered Morphine taking her pain away temporarily. We then told her the park would have to wait.
As we entered into the uncertain world of cancer, I was struck by the number of positives that sprang from this Hell. First, I experienced a depth of love from my family and friends I never knew existed. Also, Megan has continued to impress us with her fight and resolve to lick cancer. After the shock of the news, I started realizing my network of support grew exponentially. Neighbors we hardly spoke to, except for an occasional wave, came over to share their cancer stories and offers of support. Relationships with family members from around the globe have been rekindled in the face of this challenge. I've told those people around me how much I care for and love them - something I know I wouldn't have done had this not happened.
As of this writing, we are almost 8 months into a 30 month treatment. We've had several scary moments and days-long periods in which we are waiting anxiously for test results to rule out yucky, potentially life long side effects of her treatment. There are way too many people to thank here for helping us get to this point. We are uncertain what is in store for Megan. When doubt creeps in, I recall a lyric from Elton John's song Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters - "I thank the Lord there are people out there like you". We are so grateful for the people we have found, including TNT. When I go out to run, Megan will occasionally ask "Are you and your friends running to beat cancer?" and I respond, "All of us are." Then on one occasion before I walked out the door she said with a furrowed brow "It's showtime baby!" Inspiration is not an issue!
I'd like thank all of those involved in TNT, coaches, team captains and runners, that give people a resource to fight back against blood cancers. It's very empowering and has both mental and physical benefits.
Ethan Avery, proud father of Megan Avery!
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Reid Winkler
Originally written June 28, 2007:
This summer my older brother celebrates 15 years in remission from Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He was originally diagnosed when we were both in college - we knew that enlarged lymph nodes in his neck making it wider than his head and night sweats were not good things. Radiation therapy had him in remission for about a year before it all started again.
The second time around earned him 6 months of chemo while trying to finish his senior year of college. He did, and his graduation present was an autologous bone marrow transplant! He never complained - he was so strong and determined.
Unfortunately I was young - my level of maturity and strength were in no way comparable to his. My way of dealing with things was telling myself everything would be okay and burying my head in college studies. I just wasn't there for my brother the way I should have been. I know I can't go back and change that, but I have long wanted to find a way give back to the people, the researchers, and the organization that supported my brother when I fell short.
I first joined TNT in 2001 and ran the Rock n' Roll Marathon in San Diego. It was the most wonderful experience of my life. Educational and military commitments have kept me from a repeat performance until now. I just thought it would be a great way to celebrate my brother's milestone of being "cured" now three times over.
I see the benefits of the research the Society supports. I know patients being treated by a protocol similar to my brother's no longer have to spend 5 weeks in a laminar flow room and 3 months living at home with out going out in public. He can tell you that's a good thing. I'm proud that TNT and I are making a difference. I know my brother is too. That (and all the other honored teammates) is why I'm here.
Share if you like.
All the best,
Reid Winkler
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
This summer my older brother celebrates 15 years in remission from Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He was originally diagnosed when we were both in college - we knew that enlarged lymph nodes in his neck making it wider than his head and night sweats were not good things. Radiation therapy had him in remission for about a year before it all started again.
The second time around earned him 6 months of chemo while trying to finish his senior year of college. He did, and his graduation present was an autologous bone marrow transplant! He never complained - he was so strong and determined.
Unfortunately I was young - my level of maturity and strength were in no way comparable to his. My way of dealing with things was telling myself everything would be okay and burying my head in college studies. I just wasn't there for my brother the way I should have been. I know I can't go back and change that, but I have long wanted to find a way give back to the people, the researchers, and the organization that supported my brother when I fell short.
I first joined TNT in 2001 and ran the Rock n' Roll Marathon in San Diego. It was the most wonderful experience of my life. Educational and military commitments have kept me from a repeat performance until now. I just thought it would be a great way to celebrate my brother's milestone of being "cured" now three times over.
I see the benefits of the research the Society supports. I know patients being treated by a protocol similar to my brother's no longer have to spend 5 weeks in a laminar flow room and 3 months living at home with out going out in public. He can tell you that's a good thing. I'm proud that TNT and I are making a difference. I know my brother is too. That (and all the other honored teammates) is why I'm here.
Share if you like.
All the best,
Reid Winkler
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Monday, June 18, 2007
Kristen Procida
Originally written June 18, 2007:
When I was contemplating running a marathon I did a Yahoo search for Marathon training teams and the first hit I got was for TNT. It sent chills up my spine because my mother has Leukemia. I figured if that wasn't a sign, I don't know what was! I would have felt guilty if I didn't run! My mom is without a doubt my hero. It was my senior year of college that my mom was diagnosed with leukemia and she went to the doctor by herself because she didn't want to worry my sister and me if it was a false alarm. By far the worst day of my life, and I've seen quite a bit in my day.
I deployed to Iraq in 2005 for a year and saw how much the stress affected my mom and her health, it broke my heart, but as patriotic as she was, she wouldn't have asked me not to deploy, and I couldn't turn my back on my mission with the military. No matter how rough it gets, my mom will always say she is fine in a convincing fashion and do it with a smile and a sparkle in her eye.
I'm running for my mom and for everyone else out there who has a loved one with the disease and for those strong individuals themselves. As a friend of mine told me in a card when my mom was diagnosed, "in the end, everything will be ok, if it's not ok, it's not the end" and "times don't get tough, people do." Thanks again for all you do...... Feel free to share the story, I'm doing it for my mom, to get out what an amazing woman she is, is a great thing for me.
Thanks,
Kristen
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
When I was contemplating running a marathon I did a Yahoo search for Marathon training teams and the first hit I got was for TNT. It sent chills up my spine because my mother has Leukemia. I figured if that wasn't a sign, I don't know what was! I would have felt guilty if I didn't run! My mom is without a doubt my hero. It was my senior year of college that my mom was diagnosed with leukemia and she went to the doctor by herself because she didn't want to worry my sister and me if it was a false alarm. By far the worst day of my life, and I've seen quite a bit in my day.
I deployed to Iraq in 2005 for a year and saw how much the stress affected my mom and her health, it broke my heart, but as patriotic as she was, she wouldn't have asked me not to deploy, and I couldn't turn my back on my mission with the military. No matter how rough it gets, my mom will always say she is fine in a convincing fashion and do it with a smile and a sparkle in her eye.
I'm running for my mom and for everyone else out there who has a loved one with the disease and for those strong individuals themselves. As a friend of mine told me in a card when my mom was diagnosed, "in the end, everything will be ok, if it's not ok, it's not the end" and "times don't get tough, people do." Thanks again for all you do...... Feel free to share the story, I'm doing it for my mom, to get out what an amazing woman she is, is a great thing for me.
Thanks,
Kristen
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Monday, June 11, 2007
Kevin "Stenny" Stenstrom
Originally written June 1, 2007:
My father died of leukemia in June, 2005. I had done 3 events with TNT in his honor prior to his passing because he is a true hero of mine, and I wanted him to know the effect he had on me and help him in his fight the best way I knew how.
Since his death, I have run 2 TNT events in his memory because he had such a positive influence on my life and TNT is a positive organization. The stories I have heard from others have reminded me that all the leukemia/lymphoma statistics are very informative but the personal connections really bring it home.
This attachment was the eulogy I gave at my dad's funeral. We all know people like my dad who fight so positively throughout theirlife. I thank God everyday that I have people like my dad in my life, and it is a great reminder of why what we are doing through TNT is so important. Please use as you see fit. GO TEAM!!
Stenny
'Reflections of Dad'
My dad's 75 year journey reminds me of the Frank Capra film' 'lt's a Wonderful Life'. By society's standards, Dave Stenstrom's life was not a success story.' He was not famous and he was not rich. But, he touched everyone he knew or met. ln fact, I would bet that everyone in this church today has been touched by my dad. Our lives have Dave Stenstrom's imprint, and l think that is the true measure of success. We were and are blessed to have had him in our lives l think today, right now, we should celebrate that. So, I would like to share with you some thoughts from our family on my dad.
He was a man of many talents: Runner (a few years back), skier, golfer (albeit slow - more like the Art Carney ol golf), artist, musician (he liked the more obscure intrumenls like the accordion and fife); jokester (the king of puns); dancer (preferably ballroom or swing); superior whistler.
As kids growing up and even as adults, he was our biggest fan. He never forced us to do anything, yet let us try everything: baseball, football, soccer, kayaking, herpitology, acting, dancing and many more. Once l was in middle school, l was singing in a barbershop quartet chorus. My dad practically became a groupie, taking me to barbershop quartet concerts and buying albums of nationally known quartets. ln fact, his love for this music prevailed through the years. Just a few years ago, he was at a festival in Atlanta with my sister and brother-in-law that happened to have barber shop quartets singing. He planted himself in front ofthe stage and ended up talking to the singers as if HE had produced their albums. Dad could strike up a conversation with anybody.
When my brother and I were on the high school gymnastics team, mom and dad did not miss a meet. This could end up being a little embarrassing because in the deafening silence of concentration just prior to beginning your routine, you would hear a cheer from my dad, as if he had a megaphone strapped to his mouth, "GoMike!" And, when the routine was over, no matter if you had fallen off the pommelhorse or high bar a thousand times, you would hear, 'Good routine, Kevin, good routine.'
Before we entered college, the only college football games I can recall Dad walching were Michigan games (Go Blue!). Once we were in college, though, his favoite teams became the Universities of Massachussetts and New Hampshire, Boston College, and Holy Cross. My parents would travel every weekend, it would seem, to one of our school's games - supplying us with the best tailgate party on the field. lf any of our schools played each other, they would sit on one side of the stadium for a half and then switch to the other side for the rest of the game.
One summer, after I had returned from my annual ROTC training, l jokinglyasked him if he had figured out the fall's football itinerary. He said, "Come out to the porch and I will show you - Sept 1, we will be at UMASS, Sept 7, we wil be at BC" ... I had returned from ROTC training around June 24 - more than 2 months beforefootball season began. Like I said, our biggest fan.
Even when our interests did not suit his tastes, he went along. My brother Mike has aptly described our dad as more or less a "city guy'. Yet, he took the time to takeus fishing as young kids, which started a love of the outdoors that has carried to this day for my brother. Being a city guy, you would think he would have regretted this. No, he embraced it, even to the point of my parents joining my brother in a duck blind on a cold November dawn in Maine. Once again, our biggest fan.
My dad was also the consummate optimist. He had one of the most positive attitudes of anyone I had ever met. When mom and dad came to visit us in Hawaii inMarch, he was already having to rely heavily on a cane for balance and support. But, every time we past a beautiful Hawaii golf course, he would say, 'Boy, I hope I get to play golf again!" And, all of us kids witnessed these past few months dad planning a trip to Switzerland, if only he could convince mom to go. His optimism lasted until the end. A couple of weeks ago, just prior to having his pacemaker put in, he reminded me that he wanted me to send him a ukelele. "Now remember', he said, "don't forget to send instructions on how to play it.' The man had diabetes, a blood disorder, non-hodgkins lymphoma, had undergone quintuple bypass surgery, survived congenital heart failure, and was about to receive a pacemaker, yet still was ready to learn a new instrument. Now, THAT is positive thinking!
On another note, dad was annoyingly methodical. The man researched everything - from buying cars to toenail clippers. He was infamous for reading every word on every plaque on every monument or in every museum. While visiting theSmithsonian Museums as kids, dad was at least 5 exhibits behind us in every museum. lf we hadn't pulled him along, I think he would still be there.
He was a measure twelve times, cut once, kind of guy. As new homeowners, every one of his children was subiected to his drawn-to-scale graph paper landscape designs for our property (and, secretly we loved him for it).
Once, while visiting Nate and Beth in Atlanta without mom, Dad offered to paintdoors and trim in their recently purchased home. Nate and Beth returned from thestore a couple of hours later, expecting that the doors and maybe some of the trimwould be complete. What they found instead was one perfectly primed door with no signs of even one drop of paint landing anywhere but lhat door.
Finally, we loved my dad's laugh because he loved to laugh. He was a connoisseur of Red Skelton, Jonathan Wnters, The Muppet Show, and RoadRunner/Wle E. Coyote cartoons.
Dad was our hero for the way he lived his life. He was our quiet counsel- a man of true honor and integrity, who didn't need to boast about it. He walked the walk instead of talking the talk
His spritiual compass never wavered and always pointed to true north. His prayer life was one of the strongest I had ever witnessed. As Marsha, my sister-in-law, observed, "He's connected." In a conversation I had with him just a couple of days before he died, he said he was content - everyone has to go sometime and this is his time I said "And you know where you are going?" He said, 'That is what I am praying for.'' I think everyone in this church knows where dad went - straight up.
My dad touched us in so many ways, each time leaving a blessed indelible mark. Just like in the Frank Capra film, he has changed the world for the better by touching so many people's lives. His spirit will live within all of us I can't think of amore beautiful gift I have ever received from my dad.
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
My father died of leukemia in June, 2005. I had done 3 events with TNT in his honor prior to his passing because he is a true hero of mine, and I wanted him to know the effect he had on me and help him in his fight the best way I knew how.
Since his death, I have run 2 TNT events in his memory because he had such a positive influence on my life and TNT is a positive organization. The stories I have heard from others have reminded me that all the leukemia/lymphoma statistics are very informative but the personal connections really bring it home.
This attachment was the eulogy I gave at my dad's funeral. We all know people like my dad who fight so positively throughout theirlife. I thank God everyday that I have people like my dad in my life, and it is a great reminder of why what we are doing through TNT is so important. Please use as you see fit. GO TEAM!!
Stenny
'Reflections of Dad'
My dad's 75 year journey reminds me of the Frank Capra film' 'lt's a Wonderful Life'. By society's standards, Dave Stenstrom's life was not a success story.' He was not famous and he was not rich. But, he touched everyone he knew or met. ln fact, I would bet that everyone in this church today has been touched by my dad. Our lives have Dave Stenstrom's imprint, and l think that is the true measure of success. We were and are blessed to have had him in our lives l think today, right now, we should celebrate that. So, I would like to share with you some thoughts from our family on my dad.
He was a man of many talents: Runner (a few years back), skier, golfer (albeit slow - more like the Art Carney ol golf), artist, musician (he liked the more obscure intrumenls like the accordion and fife); jokester (the king of puns); dancer (preferably ballroom or swing); superior whistler.
As kids growing up and even as adults, he was our biggest fan. He never forced us to do anything, yet let us try everything: baseball, football, soccer, kayaking, herpitology, acting, dancing and many more. Once l was in middle school, l was singing in a barbershop quartet chorus. My dad practically became a groupie, taking me to barbershop quartet concerts and buying albums of nationally known quartets. ln fact, his love for this music prevailed through the years. Just a few years ago, he was at a festival in Atlanta with my sister and brother-in-law that happened to have barber shop quartets singing. He planted himself in front ofthe stage and ended up talking to the singers as if HE had produced their albums. Dad could strike up a conversation with anybody.
When my brother and I were on the high school gymnastics team, mom and dad did not miss a meet. This could end up being a little embarrassing because in the deafening silence of concentration just prior to beginning your routine, you would hear a cheer from my dad, as if he had a megaphone strapped to his mouth, "GoMike!" And, when the routine was over, no matter if you had fallen off the pommelhorse or high bar a thousand times, you would hear, 'Good routine, Kevin, good routine.'
Before we entered college, the only college football games I can recall Dad walching were Michigan games (Go Blue!). Once we were in college, though, his favoite teams became the Universities of Massachussetts and New Hampshire, Boston College, and Holy Cross. My parents would travel every weekend, it would seem, to one of our school's games - supplying us with the best tailgate party on the field. lf any of our schools played each other, they would sit on one side of the stadium for a half and then switch to the other side for the rest of the game.
One summer, after I had returned from my annual ROTC training, l jokinglyasked him if he had figured out the fall's football itinerary. He said, "Come out to the porch and I will show you - Sept 1, we will be at UMASS, Sept 7, we wil be at BC" ... I had returned from ROTC training around June 24 - more than 2 months beforefootball season began. Like I said, our biggest fan.
Even when our interests did not suit his tastes, he went along. My brother Mike has aptly described our dad as more or less a "city guy'. Yet, he took the time to takeus fishing as young kids, which started a love of the outdoors that has carried to this day for my brother. Being a city guy, you would think he would have regretted this. No, he embraced it, even to the point of my parents joining my brother in a duck blind on a cold November dawn in Maine. Once again, our biggest fan.
My dad was also the consummate optimist. He had one of the most positive attitudes of anyone I had ever met. When mom and dad came to visit us in Hawaii inMarch, he was already having to rely heavily on a cane for balance and support. But, every time we past a beautiful Hawaii golf course, he would say, 'Boy, I hope I get to play golf again!" And, all of us kids witnessed these past few months dad planning a trip to Switzerland, if only he could convince mom to go. His optimism lasted until the end. A couple of weeks ago, just prior to having his pacemaker put in, he reminded me that he wanted me to send him a ukelele. "Now remember', he said, "don't forget to send instructions on how to play it.' The man had diabetes, a blood disorder, non-hodgkins lymphoma, had undergone quintuple bypass surgery, survived congenital heart failure, and was about to receive a pacemaker, yet still was ready to learn a new instrument. Now, THAT is positive thinking!
On another note, dad was annoyingly methodical. The man researched everything - from buying cars to toenail clippers. He was infamous for reading every word on every plaque on every monument or in every museum. While visiting theSmithsonian Museums as kids, dad was at least 5 exhibits behind us in every museum. lf we hadn't pulled him along, I think he would still be there.
He was a measure twelve times, cut once, kind of guy. As new homeowners, every one of his children was subiected to his drawn-to-scale graph paper landscape designs for our property (and, secretly we loved him for it).
Once, while visiting Nate and Beth in Atlanta without mom, Dad offered to paintdoors and trim in their recently purchased home. Nate and Beth returned from thestore a couple of hours later, expecting that the doors and maybe some of the trimwould be complete. What they found instead was one perfectly primed door with no signs of even one drop of paint landing anywhere but lhat door.
Finally, we loved my dad's laugh because he loved to laugh. He was a connoisseur of Red Skelton, Jonathan Wnters, The Muppet Show, and RoadRunner/Wle E. Coyote cartoons.
Dad was our hero for the way he lived his life. He was our quiet counsel- a man of true honor and integrity, who didn't need to boast about it. He walked the walk instead of talking the talk
His spritiual compass never wavered and always pointed to true north. His prayer life was one of the strongest I had ever witnessed. As Marsha, my sister-in-law, observed, "He's connected." In a conversation I had with him just a couple of days before he died, he said he was content - everyone has to go sometime and this is his time I said "And you know where you are going?" He said, 'That is what I am praying for.'' I think everyone in this church knows where dad went - straight up.
My dad touched us in so many ways, each time leaving a blessed indelible mark. Just like in the Frank Capra film, he has changed the world for the better by touching so many people's lives. His spirit will live within all of us I can't think of amore beautiful gift I have ever received from my dad.
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Karl Kaufmann
Originally written June 7, 2007:
Dear Teammates:
My name is Karl Kaufmann and in January 2005 I was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma. Follicular lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and there is no recognized cure for the disease.
Although I was diagnosed in January 2005, I did not need to begin treatment until November 2005. I am fortunate enough to participate in a clinical trial which is testing the use of two antibodies to treat the lymphoma. One of the antibodies, Rituxan, has been commercially available for about ten years. The other is Galiximab and is still in the investigational stages. Basically, evidence has shown Rituxan to be an effective treatment for follicular lymphoma, but about half of the patients treated only with Rituxan will relapse within about 3 years, and virtually all will relapse at some point. Most who receive Rituxan for treatment will also receive some form of chemotherapy, which increases the likelihood of remission and the duration of remission. Doctors want to see if the use of two antibodies (without chemotherapy) will be more successful than existing treatments. I quickly achieved a complete remission as part of the treatment, and here’s to hoping it lasts for many years. A benefit to antibody treatment, as opposed to chemotherapy, is the lack of noticeable side effects. To put it in perspective, I was running 16 and 18 miles during my November treatments and completed a marathon in January 2006 (withTeam In Training, of course!).
I became connected with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through use of their website after my diagnosis and also through Team In Training. I have trained for six events with Team InTraining over the past two years, and am currently part of the Team for theMarine Corps Marathon in October2007. The reasons for my initial interest in the Society are obvious. But theTeam In Training program is so amazing that I cannot imagine not participating in it. Hopefully you will feel the same and come back again and again.
Thank you for participating in Team In Training and raising money to help cure blood cancers. As I mentioned above, there is no recognized cure for follicular lymphoma. It is treatable for a time, but ultimately the effectiveness of repeated treatments tends to decline. But with the help of people like you, breakthroughs are around the corner. Please know that each of you has my heartfelt appreciation. Good luck with your training—and I hope to see you out on the trails!!
Sincerely,
Karl Kaufmann
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Dear Teammates:
My name is Karl Kaufmann and in January 2005 I was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma. Follicular lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and there is no recognized cure for the disease.
Although I was diagnosed in January 2005, I did not need to begin treatment until November 2005. I am fortunate enough to participate in a clinical trial which is testing the use of two antibodies to treat the lymphoma. One of the antibodies, Rituxan, has been commercially available for about ten years. The other is Galiximab and is still in the investigational stages. Basically, evidence has shown Rituxan to be an effective treatment for follicular lymphoma, but about half of the patients treated only with Rituxan will relapse within about 3 years, and virtually all will relapse at some point. Most who receive Rituxan for treatment will also receive some form of chemotherapy, which increases the likelihood of remission and the duration of remission. Doctors want to see if the use of two antibodies (without chemotherapy) will be more successful than existing treatments. I quickly achieved a complete remission as part of the treatment, and here’s to hoping it lasts for many years. A benefit to antibody treatment, as opposed to chemotherapy, is the lack of noticeable side effects. To put it in perspective, I was running 16 and 18 miles during my November treatments and completed a marathon in January 2006 (withTeam In Training, of course!).
I became connected with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through use of their website after my diagnosis and also through Team In Training. I have trained for six events with Team InTraining over the past two years, and am currently part of the Team for theMarine Corps Marathon in October2007. The reasons for my initial interest in the Society are obvious. But theTeam In Training program is so amazing that I cannot imagine not participating in it. Hopefully you will feel the same and come back again and again.
Thank you for participating in Team In Training and raising money to help cure blood cancers. As I mentioned above, there is no recognized cure for follicular lymphoma. It is treatable for a time, but ultimately the effectiveness of repeated treatments tends to decline. But with the help of people like you, breakthroughs are around the corner. Please know that each of you has my heartfelt appreciation. Good luck with your training—and I hope to see you out on the trails!!
Sincerely,
Karl Kaufmann
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Kami Wilwol
Originally written September 22, 2003
Dear Family and Friends,
For those of you who I haven’t seen in a while, about five weeks ago I began a great physical challenge. On January 18, I will be running a full marathon (yes all 26.2 miles) as a Team in Training member for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. As many of you know, this is a very personal cause for me, as I have lost two wonderful friends to leukemia. Within months of each other, while I was at RPI working on my graduate degree, two friends of mine were diagnosed with leukemia.
Mike Lacasse and I began our friendship very early on… we were probably only six or seven when we started playing soccer on the traveling team in Cambridge together. I can’t even begin to list the number of my childhood memories that include Mike, from that early love of soccer all through high school, even keeping in touch through college and into our professional careers. I can say, it was truly my privilege to have encountered such a wholesome, talented, and sincere friend. Whether it was carpooling to school events, working on houses for the less-fortunate, playing sports, or even discovering our interest in architecture together behind those drafting tables in Mr. Pasco’s class. I remember our heart-to-hearts about high school love, the future, life… Mike always inspired me to be a good person and to hold out for the best in life which he convinced me I deserved.
Julie Frezon and I were voted “most alike” in our sorority pledge class, freshman year at RPI. She was always there whether it was at 2am to get coffee at Dunkin Donuts when we needed a break from studying or to go running early in the morning when everyone else was too tired (or more likely hungover). One of the conversations that sticks in my head the most is when we were discussing the fact that she was sick and I had so much admiration for her courage and positive attitude through all that she was going through. I just couldn’t for the life of me figure out how she did it. Her words to me were “you would do the same if you had to”… I am not sure I believe that but I know she did and I can tell you, there will be times over the next few months when I will remember her confidence in me. I will need the motivation and I’m lucky to have such memories.
I will be running in memory of both Mike and Julie, as well as for honored teammates in my local area. I began my involvement last winter upon returning to Virginia after Julie’s funeral. I didn’t know what I could do, or where to start. So being a child of the computer age, I did the logical thing and began surfing the internet. I easily found a link to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, based in White Plains, NY. It is the fastest growing non-profit health organization nationwide. I began to read about Team in Training (TNT), the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s endurance training program. It provides athletes of all skill levels with coaching, camaraderie, travel and accommodations for a variety of events around the world. TNT is the #1 endurance training program in the world, the largest marathon training programin the country, and most importantly, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s largest national fundraiser… and lil ole me is now a part of all this.
So every Saturday morning, instead of watching cartoons or sleeping in, I meet my coaches and teammates at 7:00 am for our weekly “group run”, and the weekdays in between I have a rigorous workout schedule to follow. This past weekend, I ran 9 miles, which is the farthest I have ever run at one time before, and even further than I drive to work every day! You may all be thinking that I have finally lost it… but in reality, training to run 26.2 miles is nothing compared to what patients with blood related cancers go through on a daily basis.
In exchange for training and support, I have agreed to raise money toward cures for leukemia, the leading disease killer of children; Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the largest group of blood cancers; and myeloma, a nearly incurable cancer that particularly strikes the elderly and African Americans.
I have personally committed to a raising $4,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I realize this isboth a huge physical and monetary challenge (trust me I am working my butt off at both aspects!), therefore I would greatly appreciate your help. Your participation, no matter how big or small, will help me get one step closer to crossing the finish line!
Now you are probably wondering, how do you contribute and when? I have enclosed a donation form with information about your tax-deductible contribution. For Visa, MasterCard or American Express donations, follow the instructions on the form and please be sure to fill out all the information. Please make personal checks payable to: The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Many corporations have matching contribution programs for their employees, so I encourage you to ask the human resources department where you work. If they do, please attach your company’s gift form and return it with the donation form. I ask that you please return your completed donation form to me by October 18thand I will take care of the rest. You can still make contributions after this date, but if you can send it by then it will help me track my progress better.
Thank you so much for your support and for anything you can contribute. I cannot express my gratitude enough for taking the time to read my letter and for considering the opportunity to help. Please remember your tax-deductible contribution will not only help me reach my personal goals, but it could save a life or make an important difference in the fight against blood related cancers.
With Love,
Kami Wilwol
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
Dear Family and Friends,
For those of you who I haven’t seen in a while, about five weeks ago I began a great physical challenge. On January 18, I will be running a full marathon (yes all 26.2 miles) as a Team in Training member for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. As many of you know, this is a very personal cause for me, as I have lost two wonderful friends to leukemia. Within months of each other, while I was at RPI working on my graduate degree, two friends of mine were diagnosed with leukemia.
Mike Lacasse and I began our friendship very early on… we were probably only six or seven when we started playing soccer on the traveling team in Cambridge together. I can’t even begin to list the number of my childhood memories that include Mike, from that early love of soccer all through high school, even keeping in touch through college and into our professional careers. I can say, it was truly my privilege to have encountered such a wholesome, talented, and sincere friend. Whether it was carpooling to school events, working on houses for the less-fortunate, playing sports, or even discovering our interest in architecture together behind those drafting tables in Mr. Pasco’s class. I remember our heart-to-hearts about high school love, the future, life… Mike always inspired me to be a good person and to hold out for the best in life which he convinced me I deserved.
Julie Frezon and I were voted “most alike” in our sorority pledge class, freshman year at RPI. She was always there whether it was at 2am to get coffee at Dunkin Donuts when we needed a break from studying or to go running early in the morning when everyone else was too tired (or more likely hungover). One of the conversations that sticks in my head the most is when we were discussing the fact that she was sick and I had so much admiration for her courage and positive attitude through all that she was going through. I just couldn’t for the life of me figure out how she did it. Her words to me were “you would do the same if you had to”… I am not sure I believe that but I know she did and I can tell you, there will be times over the next few months when I will remember her confidence in me. I will need the motivation and I’m lucky to have such memories.
I will be running in memory of both Mike and Julie, as well as for honored teammates in my local area. I began my involvement last winter upon returning to Virginia after Julie’s funeral. I didn’t know what I could do, or where to start. So being a child of the computer age, I did the logical thing and began surfing the internet. I easily found a link to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, based in White Plains, NY. It is the fastest growing non-profit health organization nationwide. I began to read about Team in Training (TNT), the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s endurance training program. It provides athletes of all skill levels with coaching, camaraderie, travel and accommodations for a variety of events around the world. TNT is the #1 endurance training program in the world, the largest marathon training programin the country, and most importantly, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s largest national fundraiser… and lil ole me is now a part of all this.
So every Saturday morning, instead of watching cartoons or sleeping in, I meet my coaches and teammates at 7:00 am for our weekly “group run”, and the weekdays in between I have a rigorous workout schedule to follow. This past weekend, I ran 9 miles, which is the farthest I have ever run at one time before, and even further than I drive to work every day! You may all be thinking that I have finally lost it… but in reality, training to run 26.2 miles is nothing compared to what patients with blood related cancers go through on a daily basis.
In exchange for training and support, I have agreed to raise money toward cures for leukemia, the leading disease killer of children; Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the largest group of blood cancers; and myeloma, a nearly incurable cancer that particularly strikes the elderly and African Americans.
I have personally committed to a raising $4,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I realize this isboth a huge physical and monetary challenge (trust me I am working my butt off at both aspects!), therefore I would greatly appreciate your help. Your participation, no matter how big or small, will help me get one step closer to crossing the finish line!
Now you are probably wondering, how do you contribute and when? I have enclosed a donation form with information about your tax-deductible contribution. For Visa, MasterCard or American Express donations, follow the instructions on the form and please be sure to fill out all the information. Please make personal checks payable to: The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Many corporations have matching contribution programs for their employees, so I encourage you to ask the human resources department where you work. If they do, please attach your company’s gift form and return it with the donation form. I ask that you please return your completed donation form to me by October 18thand I will take care of the rest. You can still make contributions after this date, but if you can send it by then it will help me track my progress better.
Thank you so much for your support and for anything you can contribute. I cannot express my gratitude enough for taking the time to read my letter and for considering the opportunity to help. Please remember your tax-deductible contribution will not only help me reach my personal goals, but it could save a life or make an important difference in the fight against blood related cancers.
With Love,
Kami Wilwol
Click here to return to Chuck's Official Training Website
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