Another Marathon?

Ooops, looks like I'm in :-)

I believe that I said “I will never run another marathon” and “I won’t fund raise again”.  Apparently, I am a pathological liar.  I’m doing both again.  What???  If you’ve been reading this blog at all, you know that I was unable to run last year’s Chicago Marathon because of a kidney stone that was likely brought on by my 50 mile run in September.  Although cheering on Team Fox and other friends running the marathon was fun, I want to run it again. 

Rocking my Team Fox Hat

Why fund raise?  Because the money goes to the Michael J. Fox Foundation and its work to educate, advocate and cure Parkinson’s Disease.  Unlike some charities, the money I raise does not go to support my run.  I am not traveling to an exotic location nor am I getting all sorts of incentives for the run.  What will I get?  The main thing is a guaranteed entry into the Chicago Marathon.  This is not a small thing  Marathon entry is now via a lottery and not everyone gets in.  I also get a t-shirt, a pasta dinner the night before the marathon (which I probably won’t attend) and a Team Fox gear check.  If I meet my fundraising goal, I can apply to get my $185 entry fee back.   Just like it is with all donations, the Michael J. Fox foundation is wise and efficient with Team Fox as well. 

In addition, I will continue to be a Team Fox member and benefit from the community of people who have a common interest to eradicate Parkinson’s disease.  I will meet new people in person, forge new friendships and enjoy the camaraderie of the group. 

Why run another marathon?  Because I can.  Seriously, I will turn 59 years old a week before the marathon.  How did I ever get to be this old?  The funny thing is I don’t feel old at all.  In fact, I feel younger than I’ve ever felt.  I sure look older and I run slowly (not sure I ever would have run fast) but I feel marvelous and I think a lot of that comes from running.  I don’t have Parkinson’s Disease nor anything else chronic.  I can run the marathon and if I’m going to indulge myself with all the training, etc. I should at least make the effort go for something.  

So yes, another marathon!  If you are interested in donating to Team Fox and the Michael J. Fox Foundation, please do so at my fund raising page http://tinyurl.com/j8tt9ye