Run, Marla, Run!

Can I complete my first marathon in Rome on March 22, 2009? Yes, I can…Can I reach my goal of raising $5,900 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as a marathon participant? Yes, I can…Si che posso!

To echo the sentiment of Obama’s acceptance speech, the “yes I can” spirit has inspired me to work harder at realizing my dreams in life and to cherish every day I live in good health. Because I live with a chronic illness (I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2004), it is with great pride that I can stand up and run on behalf of others who live with chronic illnesses.

As a member of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Team in Training program, I have pledged to train on behalf of Honored Teammate, David Dorfman, a New York attorney who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2006. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a foundation that helps raise money to find the cure for blood cancers such as David has, including leukemia, Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and myeloma. It also provides patient services programs, much like the MS Society does, which has been an essential resource for me.

I will begin training with coaches and mentors this week, and I will accept any donations in hopes of reaching my goal of $5,900. I aim to raise $4,000 by January 5, with the remaining $1,900 raised by March 1. The money will be used by LSS for research, patient services and education—75% of the Society’s expenditures will directly advance our mission. Please think big this holiday season and give as generously as you can—your donation is 100% tax deductible.

You can simply make an online donation through this webpage!

I greatly appreciate your support, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday. I’ll keep you posted on my success. Here’s to 2009!

All my best,

Marla