Dear Family and Friends!

Welcome to the Team Jay fundraising page for the Bay State Games, a cause that's very important to me. The Mass Amateur Sports Foundation and the BSG keep kids involved in their communities and off the streets through athletics and fitness, bring communities together by providing sports and fitness opportunities for people of all ages, provide scholarships to students across the state, and promote sportsmanlike behavior in all of its programs and activities. I'm honored to be running for Team BSG and for the opportunity to run in the 109th Boston Marathon on April 18th, 2005.

The Mass Amateur Sports Foundation is an organization in whose mission I believe strongly because of its efforts to promote personal development, physical fitness, teamwork, and good sportmanship through athletics. About 2-1/2 years ago, I got sick, lost 40 pounds in a 10 week period, and was diagnosed with Type 1 (juvenile) diabetes at the age of 28. My doctor's told me that I was in the "honeymoon" phase of the disease's onset: that my body was destroying its own insulin production, and that I would eventually need to give myself daily insulin injections to control my blood sugar, most likely within 3-6 months. So, I turned to physical fitness and running, along with changing my diet, to see if I could extend the honeymoon! After 2-1/2 years, I've been able to maintain normal blood sugar levels without supplemental insulin, and this past October I ran in my first marathon in Chicago, completing it in a time of 3:51! I hope that in some way, my story can help inspire others that no matter what obstacles they face in life, they can overcome any challenges as long as they put their mind (or body) to it!

So, thank you for visiting my site, and thanks for your support. As part of the Boston Athletic Association's Marathon Charity Program, I have committed to raise $3500 for the MASF/BSG by February 28th. The BSG are a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation, and all donations are tax-deductible. Also, please check with your employer to see if they have an employee charitable gift matching program; this is a great way to double (or even triple) your donation! Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me. Any amount will make a difference but please try to give generously! If you would prefer to not donate through this site, you may also send a check made out to "Bay State Games" with "Jason Hellendrung-Boston Marathon" written in the memo line. Checks should be sent to: Massachusetts Amateur Sports Foundation Bay State Games 55 Sixth Road Woburn, MA 01801 Both Bay State Games and I really appreciate your donation. Many thanks for your support. Jason