What inspired you to start training/racing?
I lost my dad to acute multiple myeloma. I’ve lost many friends to blood cancers, and I wanted to DO SOMETHING proactive, something that would help the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to fulfill its mission to improve the lives of persons dealing with blood cancers.
What keeps you going every day?
Every day that I awaken healthy and able-bodied, I’ve been given the gift of life. Every day, I’m aware of friends and family dealing with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s Disease, and myeloma. Every day, I have a responsibility to make their lives better.
What has been your toughest moment?
My toughest moment was losing my dad in 1995, when he was just 73. I suppose there have been some miserable race day conditions too, like the Chicago Marathon at 96 degrees, and The Nations Triathlon just as hot, but they pale in comparison to losing friends and family to disease.
What has been the most rewarding moment?
The most rewarding moments come when I feel ready for the event I’ve trained for, when I’ve far surpassed the fundraising minimum for that event. Event day – marathon, triathlon, or century cycle – is just magical, because all the other Team in Training folks are there with me!
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
My biggest challenge was to run the Nike 26.2 marathon after six weeks of physical therapy on my ankle. I knew I could walk it, but didn’t know I’d be able to RUN it, 12 minutes faster than my best time!
