Hello friends and fellow runners,

Several times per year I embark on a personal endurance challenge. Sometimes its a marathon, like the Boston or Cincinnati Flying Pig marathons, sometimes farther. This year was a banner year for me as I pushed myself farther than ever before when I completed the Bull Run 50 Mile and Mohican Trail 100 Mile races. 

When I tell my running exploits to friends, family, and co-workers, often I hear the question: What are you running for? Over the years, I've pondered this very question. After all, I am talking simply about running -- a healthy activity that has become my hobby and pastime.

The time has come where it feels right to me to accept the challenge to run for more than simply personal glory. But the question became, whom do I run for? What charity?

This was not an easy decision for me. As both of my parents have passed on due to cancer,  I'm very much inclined to find a cancer-related charity to run in their honor. But it was my experience in the Army -- 9 years of active duty -- that led me to the Fisher House.

The Fisher House Foundation helps families of soldiers in need of medical attention by providing lodging and support while the service member is hospitalized. Donating to the Fisher House helps families of military members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury.

You can learn more about the Fisher House at their website: http://www.fisherhouse.org/aboutUs/aboutUs.shtml

I've accepted the challenge to raise $1,000.00. 100% of all donations, through the Firstgiving* page, will go to the Fisher House.

Starting with this weekend's Steamtown Marathon, I intend to run several races over the fall and winter, culminating with the Boston marathon in April 2008. My desire is to meet the $1,000 goal before then. 

Marathon runners will readily tell you that the 26.2 miles is the magical distance. Each and every marathon measures 26.2 miles. Therefore, in addition to your pledge, I personally pledge to match the first $2.62 of each individual donation. Its possible that your contribution will help family members better support their loved ones during a time of stress and discomfort.

I'm grateful to have this opportunity to combine my love for running with this chance to support soldiers and sailors in a time of need.

Please donate to the Fisher House.

Thank you for your generous gift. Sincerely,

~Lloyd

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

* Note: Firstgiving renders a small overhead fee for their services. I believe this is the most simple and efficent way to collect your generous donations. If you wish to avoid the Firstgiving overhead, please contact me and we can arrange a direct donation.