I am running in the Illinois Marathon's 5K on April 27, 2012 in my dad's memory. I hope to raise at least $1000 for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois! (Update: We've reached our initial goal! Let's see how close to $2000 we can get. Reach for the stars!)

My dad Tony Noel lived for 37 years, during which he fought a valiant battle with kidney disease. Even with the difficulties he endured with years of dialysis and three kidney transplants, my Dad maintained a positive outlook. His third transplant came from a family who respected their young adult's wish to become an organ donor upon his death. This gift gave him the best ten years of his life.

For years, Tony and my mom Deena hosted a golf tournament to fund medical research for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. Over the course of that time, more than $100,000 was raised for research in areas of kidney disease prevention and improving organ transplantation.

My dad had an irreverent sense of humor and an irresistible love of life, which endeared him to his large group of friends. I will never forget the number of cards we recieved in the weeks after his passing in 1997, and the touching personal memories that they contained. His vivacious spirit lives on in the many people he impacted during his life.

If you cannot contribute financially, I hope you will consider registering to become an organ donor. Kidney transplants helped my dad live much longer than anyone thought he would. In Illinois, it is simple to become a donor. Just visit http://www.donatelifeillinois.org/ and sign up.

Thank you for your help, and Go Illini!