I completed the marathon... but the race to cure blood cancers continues!

It's not too late to help!

Running the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon in support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was arguably the most challenging, terrifying, exhilirating and empowering experiences of my life. I am so thankful for your support and encouragement. To date, Team in Training chapters across the country have raised $4 million to fund research and patient aid. Any gift you are able to make in support of this formidable cause is truly appreciated.

Thanks to your generosity, we are able to help families and individuals bravely battling leukemia and related diseases; any amount you are able to contribute is truly appreciated.

I will be running the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon this coming Sunday, January 9th as a member of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team In Training, raising funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives. I am running in honor of all individuals who are battling blood cancers. These people are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!

I would be truly grateful for your support to help advance LLS's mission. It has long been a dream of mine to start (and, um... finish) a marathon. I remember watching the thousands of runners climb Heartbreak Hill as a child, run past the Heights as an undergrad, and up Beacon Street in more recent years. Being a member of Team in Training is my shot at making my marathon dream a reality, while doing some good along the way. Knowing that I am running toward not only the finish line (and a hug from Mickey Mouse?), but more importantly, toward a cure for leukemia and lymphoma-- is the ultimate motivator.

As you know, my professional life centers around honoring and celebrating the courage of children-- including one very special boy from Boston whose courageous battle with leukemia serves as the inspiration for our work. When I reflect on all that our city's young people continue to overcome, I know that-- with courage, determination, hope and grace-- nothing is impossible, least of all, completing a marathon. I will count on you, and these children's stories, to carry me through those 26 miles on Sunday.

I hope you will check back often to follow my progress. I cannot thank you enough for your generous support. I promise to make you proud.

Any amount that you are willing to donate would be truly, truly appreciated. For more information about our training or LLS, please do not hesitate to email me (eliz.evans@gmail.com). I'd love to hear from you!