Hi family & friends,

I recently crossed off one of my goals on my life's 'to do' list when I successfully ran the Disney World Marathon in January, 2009.  I have now been given the amazing opportunity to participate in the world's oldest annual marathon, the Boston Marathon. However, I need your help in order to complete this extraordinary feat.

I will be training and raising money for Walker Home and School.  Walker is a network of facilities and professionals that provides world-class mental health services, state-of-the-art special education, expert professional training and consultation, and child welfare advocacy.

Each year, Walker provides intensive services for hundreds of the most troubled children, youth and families. Walker's multidisciplinary programs extend specialized therapeutic environments beyond our classrooms into family homes, public schools and community settings.

Professionals and students from across the nation find rewarding professional development and training opportunities at Walker. As a center for innovation in child welfare, special education and children's mental health, Walker has earned national and international recognition.

As many of you may know, I strongly believe in the importance and advocacy of mental health and wellness, and I love children.  Through personal experience and years of studying psychology and nursing, I consider other's mental health and wellness a priority.  By supporting my goal of running the 2009 Boston Marathon, you will also be providing support for those who need the support and services of Walker Home and School.

Help send me across this world famous finish line on April 20, 2009 at the Boston Marathon by donating, or by sending your encouragement and well wishes while I embark on this incredible opportunity!

Some perspectives and ideas for donations:

$1 = my first Boston Marathon

$2 = my second marathon

$12 = my favorite number

$25 = 25,000 runners in the marathon, 25 water stops

$26.2 = miles in a marathon

$42 = kilometers in a marathon

$100 = number of high fives i will receive along the race

$385 = 385 yards (those last .2 miles!)

$500 = 500,000 spectators in Boston on race day

For more information on Walker Home and School visit their website:

http://www.beaconhighschool.org/

Thanks for your support, encouragement and donations!

Caitlin

**A special thanks to Melissa Seeley, my sister-in-law (kind of), for giving me this wonderful opportunity. Melissa is a social worker for Walker Home and School.**