People helping people

Yet again, I'm adding a new adventure to my life. No, I'm not moving to another country. This time I'm staying put...well, not exactly. I signed up for my first marathon! You might be wondering why I've decided to attempt such a seemingly impossible task. Here's why:

1. Because it does seem impossible. Anyone who has ever run even a mile can understand the mental and physical demand of 26.2 miles.

2. To help raise money for Cure Cancer Australia - because it seems like everybody these days has been affected in some way by cancer. I joined a non-profit organization called Can Too that will train me for 20 weeks for the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival Marathon on September 19. In return, I have agreed to raise $2,000. Not only am I working towards completing a marathon but I am curing cancer at the
same time because that's what Gators do!

3. If my parents can do it, I "Can Too!" Alright, that was lame. Anyway, my dad is 51 years old and has completed 65 marathons with a personal best time of 2 hours and 26 minutes. Pretty impressive, huh? As a kid, I always thought it was normal to have a dad that was so passionate about running. It didn't matter if it was pouring outside, my dad would get up at the crack of dawn every single day and run for miles and miles. I didn't appreciate or understand the dedication it took until I started running myself. My point is that I look up to a man who has done the impossible 65 times and is still going which gives me all of the encouragement in the world that I can do at least one. My dad's love of running has motivated my oldest brother to run a marathon and my mom to complete seven marathons and several half marathons. He has worked his magic again. There's nothing like the support of your family when they can actually understand all of the blood, sweat and tears you put into something.

Unlike most of my adventures, I need more than just moral support. Yep, this is the part where I'm asking you for money because I know everyone reading this can spare something. Think of it as one less drink at the bar (and some of you really should consider drinking less anyway) or going without Starbucks for a few days. I mean it. Every little bit helps. By donating, you're helping me accomplish a personal goal and helping a deserving cause. It's a win-win for everyone! And if you believe in good karma, here's your opportunity to have something good happen in your life. Maybe you'll get that promotion at work or run into your favorite celebrity. So, now that I've plead my case and called you out on your alcoholism, whip out your credit cards
and donate! Ready, set, go!

To donate go to http://www.cantoo.org.au/ and click "sponsor now" on the top, right-hand corner. Type in my last name, enter the amount you wish to give and, voilà, you've just done a good deed!