Hello All,
So yesterday began the one month countdown to 26.2 at the Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach. I thought I'd take this opportunity to let you all know how I'm doing.
Just over a week ago, I ran 10 miles with a friend of mine who is much faster than I am and after falling into a normal running routine, it was nice to be pushed out of my comfort zone by running with someone else. Suddenly, I found myself running outside that comfort zone on my 18 mile run this past weekend, knocking down the miles in 3:12. This was pretty awesome for me and could never have happened without the support of my running friend, my family, and the sponsors who have supported me in this endeavor to raise money to fight Cystic Fibrosis.
I recently read an article in Slate Magazine about whether you should really feel obligated to support everyone you know who participates in a [insert event here]-a-thon. It's a valid question. It's tough economic times. And a lot of people are involved in causes that are important to them. I find myself struggling with this question all of the time because I know so many other runners who are running for a cause as well. Here's a little what Slate said - and a little why I hope you will support me.
Is the mission of this organization one I would put on my Top 20 list? If not ... just hug and release. Life is short.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, who will receive the the money from this initiative, spends around 77 cents for research for each fundraising dollar it earns. Based on that factor as well as other efficiency standards, it is commonly ranked as one of the most efficient charity foundations. Don't take my word for it - check out: http://www.charitynavigator.org/
Like I said - everyone has their own causes. CF has touched my life and all I can do is ask to see if you can help. If now is not the time and this is not the cause, words of encouragement, hugs, and forwarding this email onto someone who may be interested in donating are free ways to support me in my race.
Has this organization demonstrated progress pursuing its mission? f those involved can't answer this question for you, move on.
The CFF has did great things for my sisters while they were still fighting. Significant progress has been made just over the last 30 years. When Teresa was born, the life expectancy for an individual with CF was 12 years old. Currently, the age is will into the 20s with more advances coming all of the time.
Is the individual asking for the pledge—or the organization arranging the fundraiser—worth supporting? Do you want to encourage their social efforts? Do you want them to represent you and your intentions?.
I have been given so many gifts in my life, the least of which is a healthy body - something my sisters could never say. I can't think of a better way to honor their memory than to show respect for the gifts of healthy lungs, a health heart, and strong legs I've been given. If you are receiving this email from me, it is because you have touched my life. Take a few minutes and join the others who have sponsored me in this race. At the end, hopefully we can all say that we are 100 people determined to change this world for those who battle CF. With a pledge of only 10 dollars, you can join the Race Against CF.
You can go to my blog http://www.raceagainstcf.blogspot.com/ to read more about my training, preparation, and the other sponsors.
You can go to http://teresamullin.org/pages/donate to donate via Paypal directly.
Thank you!
Liz Mullin
No comments:
Post a Comment