I've signed myself up for the NY/NJ Ironman scheduled for August 11, 2012.

The last time I actually swam was in like 1993. The longest I've ever cycled for is 10 miles. I think I've got the running thing down, but I only get to do that after making it to mile 114.4 of this epic event.

So what in the world am I thinking?

Let's leave this question to speculation and humorous conversations over food and drink. I'm gonna need it. Let us instead talk about how this will impact those dealing with blood cancers. Those of you who know me are aware of my hot passionate love affair with running. Well, Team In Training introduced us (via Kim, thanks Kim) and we've been going steady ever since. I feel quite fortunate- so fortunate in fact, that I'm convinced the universe has an unbalanced tilt in my favor. I've been doing a little here and there to correct that balance and repay the goddess of fate. Some coaching, a bit of fund raising...

But it is time to go big again. Help me help the LLS. My goal is an even $9,041.

This will make a large impact on people's lives. Over 75% of funds raised go directly toward patient services and support as well as research and development treatments such as Gleevec (TNT dollars funded 30% of its development).

• A $25 donation would cover a copay for a cancer patient, free booklets with information explaining a newly diagnosed patient's disease and treatment options or a cab to the hospital for someone's weekly chemo or radiation.
• $50 will register 1 person to be a bone marrow donor.
• $75 will provide HLA (bone marrow) typing for a family member of a patient with leukemia.
• $100 will pay for the cost of 4 patient’s chemotherapy drug prescription co-payments.
• $300 will train 25 peer volunteers who can provide emotional support to newly diagnosed patients.
• $500 will provide patient aid to a person with Leukemia or a related cancer for a year.
• $1000 allows patients to meet with health care specialists to design and discuss their disease treatment plan and prepare them with the info they will need during the treatment process.
• $2000 provides patients with a one month supply of Gleevec.

Please give what you can. You have our gratitude.

If you're interested to track my progress and read about my escapades, check this out:

http://ieatmilesforbreakfast.blogspot.com