Many running events serve as fundraisers for good causes. Sometimes these causes address issues which have personally touched our lives. In June of 2001, Kris and I participated in the Terry Fox Shore Run in Seattle, a fundraiser for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. I enjoyed a very nice 5k walk with my mother, a breast cancer survivor. The Shore Run 5k course winds along Lake Washington between Leschi and Madison Park. Mom and I enjoyed the fresh air and good company. I'd wanted to do something like this for a long time, and felt very fortunate that we took the opportunity.
Kris joined her good friends and fitness partners the Buff Babes, to run the 5k with their friend Cheryl Germany, then battling cancer. The group was conspicuous enough to attract the attention of a local news crew. Enjoy some of memories of this day here. Cheryl demonstrated a great deal of courage during her final running event, as she did during the last months of her life. She remains an inspiration for us, both as an athlete and as a person. Kris and friends convened in Seattle again in June of 2002, to celebrate Cheryl's life. I have some nice pictures of Kris, and of the rest of "Team CherylG" as they started the 2002 race.
Whenever we have the opportunity, we like to participate in running events that benefit others. I am a two-time participant in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training (TNT) program, first as a runner, then as a runner and mentor. This was one of more memorable experiences of my life. The physical challenge was like nothing else I'd tried. But the experience of getting to know some of the people involved with TNT was just as remarkable. I gained an understanding of what real courage and dedication are, and an appreciation for the good health that my family has been blessed with. Kris joined me my second time through the program. We trained together (usually joined by Kayla), and celebrated with my family the weekend of the event. Kris and I crossed the finish line, arms locked in four hours and twelve minutes. Between the two events, we personally raised over $10,000 for Leukemia research and patient assistance programs. If you're interested, you can read the fundraising letter I distributed while training for the 1999 San Diego Rock 'n Roll Marathon.
I've done a number of shorter events such as the Race for the Cure, and have been less focused on "goals" and thinking more about just having fun. The Race for the Cure was a big deal for me, as I got to wear a pink bib celebrating my mother winning her fight against breast cancer. As much as I'd thought about it when she was sick, I felt even more lucky that my bib didn't say "in memory of ...". It was also great seeing all the cancer survivors out there.
Charity events are a lot of fun, and a great opportunity to meet some nice people. Participating reminds me of why I like running in the first place. There's an atmosphere of mutual respect and support present at these events more than others. It is a great reminder that whatever we accomplish, we never really do things alone.