You can surely see above that we've made participating in Team in Training (TNT) events a family affair!

We've been involved with TNT since 1996 when Allie first became an "honored hero". My daughter Dianna completed her first event in 2000, followed by my son and daughter-in-law in 2001 and then Will, my son-in-law in 2004. And as most of you know in 2009, Dianna, Will and Allie ran the White Rock Relay as a team...with Allie crossing the finish line to celebrate her 15th year in remission from Leukemia.

But that wasn't it...the 3 of them signed up for more...with Will completing two cycling events in 2010 and Dianna running the full marathon and Allie running the half marathon in December 2010!

So after much thought...I've made the leap. This year I decided its MY turn! I have signed up to walk the Heels and Hills Half marathon on May 1, 2011. I've joined the TEAM...but I still need your help to get to the finish line!

All of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives.

I am completing this event in honor of my granddaughter - Allie - but also for the many individuals our family has met along the way who are battling cancers. And for those who have lost their lives to this deadly disease. These people are the real heroes on our team!

Please make a donation to support my participation in TNT. 75% of your donation goes directly to research and patient services. No amount is too small...every dollar donated helps makes a difference!

With much love and gratitude!

-Francine Ciulla

ps...one last note, my daughter will be updating my training on her blog - Bacons for Cause, so please bookmark it so you can stay up to date!