There are some things we do because it seems possible, and then there are things we take on because we like the challenge, and then there are things that seem dreadfully hopeless and guaranteed to fail us yet we attempt these feats because to succeed makes us better than we were before.
I’ve kept it quiet until now but I’d better put it out there now like undies on the clothesline: I’m running the Nike Women’s Marathon this fall and I’m going to running the entire 26.2 miles in honor of all the people in this world who are battling blood cancers. As a runner for Team in Training I’m standing here with my hands in my pockets, terrified, asking for you to make a tremendous difference to people who have, without discrimination, been diagnosed and are battling leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma. These are diseases that know no race, no religion, no commonality besides being HUMAN. And I’ve wept through too many cases already not to push through my insecurities and ask for your help.
And, as with all efforts, every. little. bit. helps. I’ve been told that, at the rate we’re going with research, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society predict that we will have a cure for blood diseases by 2012. You can help make this happen.
Please go visit my TNT fundraising page and read more about what every dollar will afford to a person who is undergoing treatment. It will clarify the ambiguities of your donation.
Also, leave me a comment if you know someone who is either diagnosed with, in remission from or who has died from a blood cancer. I would like to mention that person to the world and honor him or her in my efforts.
I only recently (ummm, today actually) got into blogs (i was major procrastinating on studying) and stumbled upon yours. I just wanted to let you know how much it is appreciated that you’re taking part in this marathon. I have Fanconi Anemia, and because of it I developed Leukemia 2 years ago. I got lucky and today I’m near perfect health, but I met so many people and made so many friends that are still fighting for their lives, and I appreciate your efforts in raising funds and calling attention to the research efforts. Thanks, Lynnseigh.
Read all about you, Lynnseigh. What a life story. Already! I’ll be following your blog to see you accomplish great things in the wake of your recovery.
I’m so sorry for the early loss of your twin brother to cystic fibrosis. Although I can’t comprehend that kind of grief, our family lost a dear young friend and mother to CF in 1994. If you pursue research in this area, I commend you.
I’m so happy to help. You’re officially my honoree 🙂
I am very sorry to hear about your friend. I will remember her in every step of my studies and research towards finding a cure for CF. Also, I thank you again for all that you are doing for Team In Training.
P.S. I’ve been reading your blog archives in my free time (which I have LOADS of) and you seem like the coolest mum ever.
– Lynnseigh
I really admire you for taking on this challenge. I can’t imagine all the work that will go into the training alone. I wish you the best! My father died of Leukemia when I was 19, I can’t believe that was 16 years ago because it seems like yesterday. My mom has been battling lymphoma for the past 7 years. She has had 3 reoccurences and has been hospitalized for most of this year going through a stem cell implantation. This procedure has been far more difficult than all the other chemo combined. I can hardly believe she’s had the courage to endure it all. I don’t think I could do it. As of now, there is no more cancer in her body, but the recovery is very very slow each day is so difficult. Thank you for caring about those who are fighting these diseases. There really has been amazing progress in treatment in the past 7 years. My mom was originally given a 25% chance of survival and she’s still with us. It really is nothing short of miraculous.
hey i was browsing through the web trying to find new baby names and i came across youre page. first of all youre kids are adorable! youre love for art and family is amazing. just wanted to let you know you seem like a great mom. got any baby name ideas? haha
Blogging for Blood Cancer Event – August 11-18
Please consider joining our “Blogging for Blood Cancer” Event. The first annual “Blogging for Blood Cancer” event will take place from August 11-18, 2008. This first time event will bring bloggers from across the United States together to raise awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and its mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. More information on the event is available at: http://goodiesformom.blogspot.com/2008/07/blogging-for-blood-cancer-event.html