Swimming, Biking & Running for a Cure

December 2009

Dear family and friends,

I'm back for more! On January 17th, I will be running the Phoenix Rock-n-Roll half marathon to benefit Team in Training (TNT). And starting in February, I'll be training for the July 2010 Lifetime triathlon with the Team. And so once again, I'm asking you to support me in this endeavor and donate generously to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Two years ago, I did not know anyone whose life had been impacted by leukemia or lymphoma. Two years ago, I could not run more than a block without stopping. So much has changed since February 2008. In my two years of involvement with TNT, I've raced 4 triathlons (3 sprint, 1 Olympic), and run 5ks, 5 mile, and 10 mile races. I'm excited to soon add half-marathon to that list. I've been selected for the honor of mentoring new triathlon teammates in the coming season.

But more importantly, as I've trained with the TEAM these last two years, I've heard the stories of the impact of leukemia and lymphoma on my teammates' lives. Many of my teammates have lost sisters, brothers, and parents to these diseases, or struggled to help family members through treatment and recovery. Several of my inspiring teammates are cancer survivors themselves. I've also heard from you, my donors and support network, about the ways that cancer has affected you. I am more motivated than ever to do what I can to stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives.

So I will keep training, in honor of all individuals who are battling blood cancers. My goal, in 2010, is to raise at least $2,407.37, more than I have in any other season. When I reach that amount, I will have raised $7,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphomas Society (LLS).

Charities like the LLS need our help now more than ever. Despite the advances in research, the statistics are grim: Every ten minutes, a child or adult is expected to die from leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma -- that is nearly 145 people each day, or six people every hour. But our donations to the LLS help make a difference! Since its inception in 1954, the LLS has invested more than $600 million in research specifically targeting leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Beyond research, the LLS provides financial aid to blood cancer patients, offers family support groups, and many other patient services. Please help by making a donation of any size.

With love and gratitude,

Sarah

- Lifetime Fitness Sprint Triathlon 2008

- LIfetime Fitness Olympic Triathlon 2009

- PF Chang's Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon 2010 (Mentor)

- LIfetime Fitness Triathlon 2010 (Mentor)