My name is Maryellen Reidy.  Friends call me Mel and I have been running for a very long time.  This is my first ever marathon and I am really excited.  I was originally going as a "bandit" but when the opportunity arose to be part of the NF team I was given even a better reason to run than for myself.  Through the years I have gotten to know and become friends with Sheila and Mike Eisenstadt.  They have a young son who was diagnosed with NF.  When you talk with Sheila and Mike it's always a positive and sunny attitude that you are greeted with.  Never do you suspect that they have any issues out of the ordinary that any other young family would have....but they do and I hope in my efforts I can make a small difference in the research for NF, the awareness of NF and the support of those affected by it.  Thank you for your time.  

A note on off-line donations which I want to recognize and some special notes...

I would like to thank Bob and Bill for your generous support.  To all my friends at Gold's Gym...YOU GUYS ROCK...Dr. Paul...thanks!! To Colette- for that training log that has been my "bible" these past few months-thanks for getting me started.  To the beautiful women who share the special tradition of the "magic chair"- I plan to meet you for a glass of wine....thanks so much ladies.  To all my friends, colleagues and parents who have given me their support..thank you a 100 times over. To my best friend and husband Mike and my boys, Drew, Connor and Timmy...thanks for letting me go run guys....and to everyone I have met involved with the work on NF...you are my hero!   XO Mel