I am a Survivor!

After months of treatment, trial chemo and three surgeries, I was able to say these words on March 23, 2009.  I had survived not one, but two cancers. I know firsthand what needles, x-rays, scans, nausea, surgery and more surgery feels like. Cancer patients learn to accept pain. Ive seen my familys sadness; the concern it caused my friends and the overwhelming cost of treatment. What I cannot imagine is a child having to go through what I did!

Then I met Brooks...

I had been following Brooks's story on Facebook for some time.  The short description told us in June 2015: Brooks Blackmore is a 5yr old boy who was diagnosed with an inoperable high grade pediatric midline astrocytoma grade 4. Please keep him in your prayers.  I ran the 2015/16 Ultra 55 for Brooks, managing 50 miles before my feet failed me.  I stayed in touch with his mom Tracey and aunt Tammy.  Hundreds, if not thousands prayed for him.  We were all certain Brooks would get his miracle. Brooks would be the exception...

I met Brooks and his family in Carmel, Indiana on May 9, 2015.  Twelve days later on May 21 Brooks earned his angels wings.  As I write this I am still stunned and in tears over the loss of this child, a 6-year old boy who inspires thousands.  A 6-year old boy who was going to beat the odds.  A family with amazing faith and hope.

This year I dedicate my race to Brooks's memory and his wonderful family.  I will do my best to #beBROOKSbrave and finish the distance.

How do we change the outcome of Brooks's story and so many others?  We start with demanding that more than 4% of federal funding goes to childhood cancer research. #morethan4

On December 30, 2016 January 1, 2017, I will participate in the Snowdrop Foundation Ultra 55 Hour Race through the Sugar Land Memorial Park, in Texas.  I intend to run, walk or crawl 100 miles for childhood cancer awareness.

I have set a fundraising goal of $2000. Please help me achieve my goal. Proceeds from Ultra 55 Hour run will benefit Snowdrop Foundation. Snowdrop Foundation funds pediatric cancer research and college scholarships for pediatric cancer patients and childhood cancer survivors.