This year I have the fortunate opportunity to run for the 2008 MGH Children's Cancer Research Marathon Team. Running the Boston Marathon has been a long time goal and this year I have the chance to do it!

 

However, what is even more special than achieving this life time goal is the commitment I have made to the Children's Cancer Research Center. The funds raised by the MassGeneral Marathon Team support research into the causes of childhood cancer and help to initiate effective new treatments for young patients.

 

As part of this effort I have the proud opportunity to run in honor of a patient at the MGH Children's Cancer Center. My patient partner is Ivania Vasquez-Dias. Ivania is a 13 year old girl from El Salvador suffering from osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer, and the sixth most common type of cancer in children. I've had the fortunate opportunity to meet Ivania as she undergoes her chemotherapy treatment at MGH. The strength and courage of this young woman is truly inspirational. In just the short time that I spent with her it was easy to see that Ivania is a very special person.  

 

With the help of people like you and several others we can help to give kids fighting cancer a chance to beat this disease.