As many of you know my stepdad, Mike, passed away at the end of March after a short 4 month battle with cancer. Mike was an incredible man who never knew a stranger and had many friends because of it. There wasn’t a holiday or birthday that went by where there weren’t funny texts exchanged or practical jokes played. He always sent me a count down to Christmas with a reminder he had been good and should get lots of presents. I miss and will always remember those texts and his sarcasm along with so many great things about Mike like his work ethic, how he was willing to come help, and how he loved my mom so well.
My squad has been talking for many months about running a half marathon at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa. I had considered it earlier when they were first talking about it, but never trained and decided I just wanted to see Victoria Falls and not run. I didn’t think I would survive the 13.1 miles. After Mike passed away and I returned to the World Race I began reconsidering my decision about running the 1/2 marathon. I kept feeling it could be a way that I honor and remember Mike. I still wasn’t sure I could complete the 1/2 marathon, but when I returned to the Race God kept speaking perseverance to me about finishing the last 3 months of the Race and He has been speaking that again about the marathon.
So, I’ve decided to run the Victoria Falls 1/2 marathon to honor and remember Mike and raise money for cancer research. The list is long of people I know who have had cancer or been affected by cancer. My granddaddy, aunt, and stepdad all lost their fight with cancer. My grandma beat her battle with cancer. But I still have a couple friends battling cancer. The list grows as many of my friends have lost loved ones to cancer. I want to give money to team up with those battling and those who will face cancer in the future. I want to raise money so a cure can be found! Please consider giving as I raise money by running the 1/2 marathon. My goal is to raise at least $4,000 ($1,000 for each month Mike battled cancer).
I appreciate any and all donations along with your prayers and support. You can donate at http://www.gofundme.com/rememberrunraise. Thanks 🙂
