Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page! If you have a moment, please take a peek at my story and motivation for running for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois:

As some of you may know, my father was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in early 2004. After being refused for his regular blood donation due to low iron count, his primary care physician exercised a life-saving judgement and sent him in for imaging on his kidneys, which revealed a large tumor. Approximately 12 weeks later, he underwent a radical nephrectomy and made a full recovery.

After 7 years of clean check-ups, in 2011 we were revisited by the discomfort and uncertainty that a bad test brings; tests revealed a second growth had appeared on Dad's remaining kidney. This August, he underwent a partial nephrectomy to remove another tumor. At this point, he's running great on 98% of one kidney...well over the 30% needed for everyday function (without dialysis).

I am so thankful for the research, innovation, practice and care that my father has received as he battles this disease. But I know that I must look to the future for my sister and I, who both have the genetic predisposition to develop this condition in the future.

I'm running in the Illinois Marathon as a half-marathon and I-Challenge participant for many reasons; for health benefits, for a reason to get outside and get active, to run alongside friends and fellow joggers. But more than that, I'd like to use this run as an opportunity to make an impact, and to help ensure that the great care my dad has received continues to be available to him and the countless others who fight against kidney disease.

Your donation, of any amount, is a huge encouragement to our family and an investment in my future, my father's future, and the future of all families who battle kidney disease.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to my fundraising efforts.

My goal is to raise $1,620 for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois - $100 for every mile I'll run during the 5k and half marathon I'll complete on the 27th and 28th of April as a part of the I-Challenge. Your support is what will help me get there.

Many thanks for your support, encouragement, and consideration as I chase down the miles and my fundraising goal-- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

...AND...IF YOU KNOW MY DAD...PLEASE DON'T TELL HIM WHAT'S GOING ON! WE'RE HOPING TO MAKE THIS A SURPRISE/GIFT FOR HIM ON RACE DAY. THANKS!