I run because cancer sucks.

I've told my story before about why I run, but I want to remind myself about my motivation...

I was hired at Farmers Bank when Kathie had to leave because she had AML- Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Kathie became healthy enough to return to work and we became amazing friends. Kathie once said that anyone who runs for cancer, is okay in her book. After Kathie lost her battle to cancer (stupid tears are keeping me from typing), I decided I want to run for Kathie.

I started running on the treadmill, which is incredibly boring. One mile on that thing feels like an eternity. Then, I started running through Windsor. I finally ran my first 5k on Thanksgiving Day in 2009. In March of 2010, I ran my first 8k (5 miles). My finishing time was 1:01:01. 1 hour, 1 minute, 1 second...I can do better than that! My goal this year is to do it around 55 minutes...which means I have to knock a minute off each mile I run.

This years 8k will be on March 19, 2011, in Virginia Beach, at 8 AM. What do I need? I need running buddies for the next few weeks. I run better when I have someone to run with. I would also LOVE cheerleaders for race day. You don't have to run 5 miles with me. Just stand on the sideline with a poster and hoot and holler when I run by you. Then meet me at the finish line and hang out on the beach with me the rest of the day and go to lunch with me...It amazes me how much I can eat after running. So, any volunteers?

I am officially signing up with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training to raise money in memory of Kathie and to get help with training for a 1/2 marathon. I'm waiting to hear about starting up a team. If anyone else is interested in running, let me know :) The Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 marathon benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. That race is September 4, 2011...and it will be my first 1/2 marathon!

So...who wants to run tomorrow? :)