Welcome Everyone,

I am training to participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 7, 2012 to benefit the American Institute for Cancer Research. As a member of Team AICR I am working toward two important goals, to complete the 26.2-mile endurance event and to raise money in support of vital research and education.

As you may already know last year my Mother, Pam was diagnosed with and successfully treated for breast cancer. In an effort to understand her diagnosis and treatment options I began researching breast cancer. I learned that 30-40% of cancers are preventable through nutrition, physical activity and weight management. As it turns out, this information was funded by the American Institute for Cancer Research. AICR's mission is to fund cancer research and educate people in ways to prevent cancer.

I know my family's story is not unique. Cancer has touched many peoples' lives, possibly yours. I also know how heart wrenching it is to watch someone you care about physically, mentally, and emotionally fight cancer. So I think it is important to research ways to prevent cancer, as well as to research its cures that is why I am supporting AICR.

Early on when my Mom was diagnosed with cancer, a friend told me the most important prognosticator for surviving cancer was a fighting spirit. I internalized this message and believe if all of us unite our fighting spirits we can prevent and cure cancer. For me the opportunity to run the Chicago Marathon for TeamAICR brings the lessons I learned this past year full circle. So please join me in the fight against cancer by making a donation to Team AICR. No donation is too small for this great goal!