As you all know -- over the past couple of years I've been bitten by the running bug.  Now, I am not going to be on the front page of Track and Field or Runners World at any point, but running has helped me live a better, healthier life. 

While training over the past couple of years I've realize what a blessing it is for to be able to run -- to have my health, the means to train and the support from my family and friends to do my best. There are so many people out there who don't get that chance -- because they are trying to just get by day-by-day.

I am running the Philadelphia Marathon this year -- just a few days before Thanksgiving.  This Thanksgiving, perhaps more so than any year in my lifetime, people need help for their families.  I am asking you to give what you can to Second Harvest Foodbank of the Mahoning Valley this year. 

My hometown of Youngstown has been in an economic downturn for years and the recent national economic troubles continue to devastate the area.  The unemployment rate is 12.4% and that doesn't count underemployment or people who are no longer receiving unemployment benefits. 

I am asking that you help folks in the Valley have a better Holiday Season by giving to the Second Harvest Foodbank. 

Thank you!

Karen