Great Beginnings

When I signed on the dotted line on September 19th to commit the next 4 months to fundraising for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and training with Team in Training, I had no idea what was in store for me. While I was a little scared and overwhelmed (we're talking $3,500 and 13.1 miles!), I was also very excited and eager to begin this challenge -- knowing that if my dad were still alive, he would have been my biggest cheerleader.

Almost 2 months into my training and fundraising, I'm happy to announce that I've raised $1,450 and I've run nearly 112 miles! Thank you to all of my supporters! The money you have donated is going directly to fund research dedicated to finding the cure for blood cancers, and to developing drugs that also benefit other types of cancer. It's so exciting to see the work LLS is doing!

My initial fundraising effort included sending 100 letters to family and friends, and it has yielded great results. It has been amazing to me the amount of support I've received, not only in the donations, but also in the words of encouragement. What seemed to be an overwhelming task at first now seems easier and more attainable with the support I've been given.

I'm excited about my next fundraising venture! Orange Leaf, which is a local self-serve frozen yogurt place, has given me an entire day dedicated to fundraising for LLS. Anyone who takes a flyer to the Orange Leaf on W. Tiverton (by The Lexington Athletic Club) and purchases frozen yogurt will be donating 25% of their total purchase to LLS. This amount will also count toward the $3,500 I've committed to raise. This fundraiser takes place this coming Monday, November 14th, and lasts ALL DAY.

If you would like to participate in the Orange Leaf fundraiser, you can print this image or show it to the cashier from your smart phone!

As far as training, my longest run so far has been 8 miles.
2 months ago I never would have believed that I would already be running that distance! Other than falling in a local park...while running...in the dark...in the rain...by stepping on a tree nut that I didn't see on the trail, I've truly enjoyed every step I've taken. My knees are giving me a little trouble, but hopefully a little physical therapy and a lot of ibuprofen will get me through the pain. A few of the morning runs have been pretty chilly (lower 30s), but that just means I get to go to Dick's to buy new winter weather running clothes!

After running a 5K, my first race ever!

My coach and my teammates have been amazing. While I'm the sole participant with Lexington's chapter of Team in Training (TNT) this winter season, I rarely run alone, accompanied by TNT alumni and/or my coach. They are helping to make this experience both enjoyable and rewarding.

If you know anyone who has been affected by Leukemia, Lymphoma or another form of cancer, please feel free to share my journey with them.

GO TEAM!
http://pages.teamintraining.org/ky/pfchangs12/GoJulieG