Racing to Save Lives

Thank you for taking the time to visit my 'Team in Training' home page.

This is my third time participating in the spring Olympic distance triathlon as a member of Leukemia and Lymhoma Society's 'Team in Training'. This event includes a .93 mile swim, a 24 mile bike ride and a 6.4 mile run. I keep coming back as this has been an amzing experience for me on many levels. Two years ago, I did not finish the race, as I fell off my bike and broke my arm. I made up for it last year by taking first place in my bracket. I am back again this year, not only because it is a growing experience for me in so many ways, but because it is for a very worthy cause that is saving lives on a daily basis.

This is about something much bigger than my personal fitness challenge. It is in support of all individuals with blood cancers who are facing the challenge of holding on to life itself. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) sponsors this and many other events to raise funds for research and patient support. This money has funded research that has led to the development of medicines that have saved many lives. There are many children who have been given the chance to grow up, and mothers and fathers who have been given the gift of being there to see their children grow up, as a result of the research funded by LLS. The money also funds patient services such as support groups, financial aid and education. Seventy-five cents out of every dollar donated here goes towards research and patient services. The other twenty-five cents go towards expenses associated with the event.

This year, I am participating as 'Honoree Captain'. Every year, we have 'honorees', who are people who are either currently undergoing treatment for blood cancers, or are in remission. Some are actual participants on the team and others just come to trainings and events to support us and remind us of why we are working to raise these funds. They are an inspiration to all of us. If you know of anyone who has a story to tell and/or would like to be recognized by our team, please have them contact me or send me their contact information. My email is listed below.

So, I would greatly appreciate any support that you can offer, by way of donation, no matter how small.

You can donate right on this site, or you can mail a check, made out to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to:

Eletah Elash

124 Delmas Ave.

San Jose, CA 95110

Also, if you are associated with a company that offers matching gifts or corporate sponsorship, please let me know. My email is eletah@sbcglobal.net.

Once again, thank you for visiting this site and taking the time to find out what it is all about. Through my experience with Team in Training I have gained a much more personal insight into the poignancy of this cause through having been touched by the lives and stories of our honorees. When I cross the finish line, your good will, and perhaps your donations, will have carried us all closer to a greater moment, helping LLS to cross the ultimate finish line, a cure.

I wish the best to you and all those who are dear to you. Together, we can make a difference.