I am writing today to ask for your support. I’ve taken on the daunting (and maybe just a little bit crazy) challenge of participating in a 13.1 mile half-marathon, taking place on June 3rd. I am participating on behalf of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training program. It’s the largest endurance sports training program founded specifically to support finding a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
You probably don’t know this, but I hate to run. I used to say the only way I’d run was if someone were chasing me and my life was in danger, so my willingness to run 13.1 miles voluntarily is a testament to how good this cause is.
I have committed to raise $4200 by May 18th and complete the half-marathon. In return, Team In Training will coach my teammates and I and give us the support we need to meet our goal. Now I need your support to meet my fundraising commitment.
I understand on a personal level what it takes to fight these diseases. In 2003, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and underwent both chemotherapy and radiation treatment. With the support of my family, friends, and the wonderful doctors and nurses I had, and the advances in treatment that have been made, I have been in remission for three years. I believe this half-marathon is my chance to give back, to run for those who cannot, to inspire other survivors to do the same, and to give hope to their families.
I am also running in honor of my uncle, Terry Triplett. He was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1996 and unfortunately lost his fight with cancer last November after battling the disease for ten years. No matter how hard it got, he never gave up.
Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated, whether it's $25, $50, $75 $100, $250 $500 . . . well you get the point. There are several easy ways you can contribute: you can either make out a check out to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and return it to my address listed below, or you can donate here, by clicking the donate link on the left side of the webpage, which is a secure site. Your contribution is 100% tax-deductible and 75% of donations go directly to the cause.
I hope you'll visit my web site often to check on my progress. Please call me at anytime at (919) 740-6894. Thanks for your support!
Sincerely,
Riana Smith
3811-01 Lunceston Way,
Raleigh, NC 27613