I’m just about to head out for my first run since completing the San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon last week, so I guess time enough has passed to reflect and write you all about my Team in Training experience this spring. The best word to describe the past five months would have to be incredible: our journey has been incredibly difficult, incredibly exhilarating, incredibly rewarding and incredibly humbling.
Since beginning fundraising in February, you have helped me raise $5,071.23 for blood cancer research and patient services. As the Cambridge Team, we contributed $347,141.89 to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. And, as a whole, participants running the San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon are responsible for $12 million towards a cure for blood cancers. In the first letter I sent I stated that a lot of little’s add up to one big and while sometimes $5 does not feel like it will cure cancer, $12 million certainly does. I am so grateful for your commitment and support.
Running on June 6 was an experience unlike any I’ve ever had. The Massachusetts chapter sent 90 representatives to San Diego, 54 of which were members of our Cambridge team. It felt like the best field trip of all time! The race had high moments and… not so high moments, but 4 hours and 25 minutes after crossing the start line in Balboa Park, I crossed the finish in Sea World with dozens of landmarks, rock n roll bands, and laps around Fiesta Island in between. Across banked highways, sandy paths, and in 80 degree sun, it was certainly a memorable experience and I was lucky enough to see my sister Cait and her boyfriend Chris four times on the course and just before crossing the finish, as well! Talk about crowd support! I wouldn’t have changed a thing.
Next on the list? A 4.2 mile race around the Charles tomorrow night and a half marathon this fall before taking back on the Boston Marathon for Team in Training next April. OK, so I’m not committed yet, but having a goal helps. Thank you again for your donations, kind wishes, and on-going support. I couldn’t have done it without you.
With gratitude,
Jillian