Well, the answer is simple. Because I can. Of course, it’s really much more complex that those three words, but you get the point. In 1997 I lost my father to esophageal cancer after two years of illness. I miss my dad. I’m sad he missed my college graduation (he would have been so proud!), I’m sad that he won’t walk me down the aisle on the day I get married (though he would have bribed me to elope) and I’m sad that I cab't call him to tell him how things are going.

I first got involved with Team in Training (TNT) in 2006, training to complete the Mayor’s Marathon in Anchorage, Alaska. I signed up when I read how many treatments that are discovered through blood cancer research often lead to improvements in other cancer treatments. Cancer is cancer.

In 2008, I took up the challenge again, this time to complete a century (100 mile bike ride) on the Intercoastal of Florida. One of my teammates was also our honored hero. He had CML. Doug was full of life, positive and upbeat all the time. Though I’m sure there were days when he didn’t want to be. In 2010, he underwent bone marrow transplant surgery. Unfortunately, he developed severe Host vs. Graft Disease and passed away.

In December of 2010, I decided to take up the TNT challenge one more time… in honor of Doug. And my father. So I ride because they can’t. Because I can.

I have one week left to finish my fundraising. If I do not meet my goal by May 20th, I will be responsible for the balance of the fundraising goal. If you haven't made a donation, please consider making a generous donation online. If you have already donation, can you spare an additional donation to get me to my goal. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.

For fundraising, that is. Still almost six weeks until the century itself. As many of you know, my fundraising goal is $4,000 and I've raised almost $1,200. That's a long way to go.

I have two fundraising events coming up in an effor to raise more money and make things fun for everyone participating.

First up is Wine Down for a Cure on May 10th. For your $20 donation (advance purchace), you will receive unlimited wine and appetizers for two hours at Urban Flats - Downtown and one raffle ticket. You can pay at the door too, it will be a $25 donation at that time. The theme for the evening is Building Industry night and it is hosted by Baker Barrios Architects and PPI Construction Management, Inc, but you don't have to be a part of the industry to come out and have fun! Let me know if you would like to get your tickets in advance.

The second event is Orlando before the Mouse: A historic bike tour of downtown Orlando. There will be two tours on Sunday, May 15th at 10AM and noon. More details to follow on this fun event as I finalize on the details.

And as always you can make a straight donation towards my fundraising goal with the link on this page.

Thank you in advance for all your help!

So last weekend, I was on vacation in Maine and missed the team's first 40 mile ride. I did manage to get some saddle time at the base fitness center thanks to my mom, but it does not compare to the real thing.

I knew this week's ride was going to be rough. After two weeks of sporadic cycling and it being a longer ride I prepared myself for a bad day. Surprisingly, it was only the last ten miles that really got to me. Granted I was working harder for every pedal stroke than I normally do, but I survived!

I have currently raised $890 towards my personal goal of $4000. Recommitment for Team in Training is just a week away, so I need to reach $1000 by the end of March. Also, just a reminder that all funds must be in by a month before our event, so please make sure you make your donation no later than May 5th.

****Donation incentive/challenge****

I am committing to donate $100 total to my own goal. Everyone who matches my $100 donation by May 1st will be entered into a drawing for a really great prize. Specifics to be announced later. The $100 can be in a single or multiple donations.

Thanks everyone for your continued support!

It's now three weeks into the training season and two weeks since I sent out my fundraising letters and e-mails.

First of all, I have reached $755 so far. To everyone who has generously donated... Thank You! Your swift reply to my request is greatly appreciated.It is truly humbling to have such a wonderful, supportive network. If you haven't made your donation yet, there's still time. Of course the earlier the better.

As for training... this week was a 30 mile ride and our first one with hills. I only got off the bike once going up a hill because my chain jammed. Other than that, it as slow going a few times, but I made it up every single hill. A vast improvement from 2008 season. I'm going to be ready for those North Carolina hills.

Other than that, keep your eyes out for fundraising events I'll be posting, make those donations and cheer me on! Thanks again.

Come have dinner at the Sweet Tomatoes on E. Colonial Drive. Bring this flyer with you and 15% of the sales between 5 and 8pm will go directly to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Thanks for all your help!