Fifteen years ago my father lost his 15-year battle with lymphoma. Thanks in part to research sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he spent 15 incredibly productive years as a beloved professor, world-renowned researcher, and most importantly, an excellent and loving father.

In July I will cycle from Seattle to Portland, a 200+ mile ride over 2 days. I chose this ride not only for the physical challenge, but because Seattle's Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is one of the preeminent cancer research and treatment facilities in the world. It is also where my father received his bone marrow transplant in 1994.

So what is the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? The short version is that LLS provides financial support for research into blood cancers, patient support (diagnoses, treatments, financial assistance), and advocacy. In 2009, they provided over $69 million to support these goals. You can find more information from their slightly overwhelming home page.

Team in Training is a fundraisng initiative of the LLS, providing an opportunity for 40,000 athletes (and, um, non-athletes like me) to participate in marathons, triathlons, and cycling events nationwide. The participants train for 4-6 months for these events and raise money from wonderful and generous people like you.

Throughout the Spring, (most Saturdays and Sundays, some Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays) from a frigid, wind-swept February morning through the cauldron of heat in July, I've climbed on my bike to prepare myself to cycle 200 miles. I'm nearly there.

Please contribute.