This August marks the 5th anniversary of my brother Jeff’s passing, an event that had a profound effect on me in some unexpected ways. When my brother lost his battle with Lymphoma, I discovered Team in Training, (TNT), a branch of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society that trains novice and experienced athletes to complete endurance events-- marathons, triathlons and century (100-mile) bike rides-- in exchange for their commitment to fundraising.
I vividly recall leafing through the mail and coming across the shiny pamphlet from TNT. As I read the description of a century ride out west, I wept. My brother loved to ride his bike and had lived in Colorado. He often encouraged me to visit him, describing the breathtaking views and the colorful sunsets in an effort to lure me out there. I deferred the trip, citing life and kids. Eventually, Jeff moved back east, got sick and the opportunity was lost. As I deciphered the details of the pamphlet through a blur of tears, I knew that I was in the midst of a life-changing moment.
At the time, I rarely exercised and didn't even own a bike. My friend Beth often chuckles as she recalls my claims that there was no way I could get to the gym; there just wasn't enough time in the day. Regardless, the prospect of doing this ride and raising money to fund blood cancer research and support patients in the course of treatment seemed a meaningful tribute to my brother. Without hesitation, I signed up. I sold the old station wagon that Jeff had driven cross country countless times and bought the bike that would take me on my journey.
As a novice cyclist, I felt triumphant each week as I incrementally added miles to my rides. I was amazed and delighted to complete my first century ride just a few months after I began riding and I couldn’t help but wonder what else I might be capable of. I began to challenge myself, riding with stronger cyclists and entering races. Now, I’m competing against some incredibly talented women in some pretty epic races, and, dare I say, holding my own. Never would I have imagined that my brother’s tragic death would have led me to discover a passion for competitive cycling.
As proud as I am at what I’ve accomplished on the bike, my ongoing involvement with Team in Training has been even more rewarding. Over the course of completing 7 events with “The TEAM”, I have raised over $18,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Better still, my experience with Team in Training inspired my husband Adam to get in on the action. He joined TNT’s run team and is currently training for his third marathon. Between us, we have fundraised over $30,000 that will go toward finding a cure for blood cancers!
Since its founding in 1949, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has been a driving force behind breakthroughs in treating blood cancer. Back then, a blood cancer diagnosis was almost always fatal. Thanks in part to innovative research funded by LLS, survival rates have doubled, tripled and even quadrupled for blood cancer patients. My experience riding has taught me what can be achieved with persistence and determination. Together, we can support further developments in cancer research. With our persistence and determination, cure rates will continue to increase and the ultimate goal of finding a cure will be within reach.
This summer, I will celebrate my 40th birthday and commemorate the 5th anniversary of Jeff’s passing. With profound gratitude for all that life has given me and in loving memory of my dear brother, I will mark the convergence of these events by riding the North Fork Century Ride with Team in Training on August 28th. Please, join with me to honor Jeff’s memory and bring us closer to a cure by making a tax-deductible donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
With Love and Thanks,
Jenn
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The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is a global leader in the fight against cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all monetary donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by tax laws. Please check with your financial advisor if you have more questions.