Final PUSH!--Update May 9, 2011

With 26 days 'til my first century ride in Tahoe, I am reminded how thankful and blessed I am by all of you support! I have only $490 to make my fundraising goal. Please consider being part of an amazing organization that helps better the lives of those with blood cancers and who will not stop until a cure is found! No donation is too small...and each dollar goes directly towards patient services and research! Thank you!

Cycling 100 Miles Closer to a CURE

There are moments that will change our lives forever. There are people we meet along the way that we now couldn't imagine our lives without. There are missions that bring focus and clarity to our sport. For me, this is what Team in Training has been all about.

It has been three years since I joined the TEAM and completed my first full marathon. I had an amazing experience while training with the team. I met the best people, made the most wonderful friends, was inspired on a daily basis while learning more about the mission, and completed my first marathon! It was hands down one of the BEST experiences of my life. I proudly raised $5200 in LIFE SAVING funds for our heroes with blood cancers.

After crossing that line, I knew that I was hooked-- on the TEAM, the cause, and endurance events. Since then, I have become a run/walk mentor for the TEAM and TNT Alumni Communications Chair. I couldn't imagine life without my 'purple people!' I have also completed a total of four full marathons, five half marathons, and two Adventure Triathlons.

Along the way, I have been able to see first hand the difference our fundraising dollars makes. I have cheered for 'cancer free anniversaries', met our patient heroes, talked to families who were supported by LLS, and run along side fellow participants completing their first 'cancer free' event. I have been amazed, inspired, and humbled.

Sadly, along the way, we have had to say good-bye to patient heroes who lost their fight. I have wiped tears along side family members, friends, and fellow participants as they tell their stories of battles not won. It is for all these reasons and more that I have again commited to raising much needed funds.

So...what's next??? I've taken on a new challenge, and I couldn't be more excited! I have signed up for a 100 mile bike ride! On June 5, 2011, I will be cycling 100 miles throughout Lake Tahoe. Of course the training will be hard, and the miles long, but it is NOTHING compared to those who battle blood cancers on a daily basis.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my cause. It is because of generous people like YOU that allows LLS to continue to be the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services.

Donations can be made to my website, or mailed to my address below.

With much love and many thanks,

Kelly

GO TEAM!

5617 Forbes Avenue

Apt 4

Pittsburgh, PA 15217

412-400-1693

klm6187@gmail.com