be good. be strong.

I am inspired to run by many people. I started running marathons seven years ago in support of my three siblings who had been diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, I now run in their memories as within three years, all of them lost their lives to cancer. I also run for many others who I carry with me across the miles: family members, friends, neighbors, team members, and your loved ones whose stories you have shared with me over the past 6 years.

I think that throughout the 11 years, from my brother's first diagnosis of a brain tumor in 2000 to the day of my second sister's funeral in 2011, running has saved me. In the many years of illness, treatment, and occasional remissions; and those that have followed their deaths, running has provided me an outlet to process pain and sadness, to clear my head and think through decisions, to cry, to remember, to laugh. Through running, I have realized how important exercise is to overall well being, and I know that enduring what our family has been through would have been significantly more difficult for me without being able to throw on my shoes and head out the door.

Cancer doesn't just affect those who are diagnosed: It changes the world for anyone that is part of that life. Having the opportunity to use running in a positive manner has helped me to see that I am running towards many positive things and not away from the negative. Towards a cure for cancer, serenity and peace, hope and courage and strength.

The funds raised will benefit a leading cancer hospital in Boston to fund cancer researchers at the leading edge of discovery to achieve better cure rates and to enhance patients' quality of life.

So, please....Buy a shirt. Spread the word. Share the story. And thank you so much for your support!

Be good. Be strong.
http://begoodbestrong.blogspot.com/