in memory of ernie.

I went and watched the movie "The Express" last night. It chronicles the life of Ernie Davis, a football player for Syracuse in 1959-1961 and the first African-American to win a Heisman Trophy. During this time that Ernie played for Syracuse, racism was very prevalent in this country. He helped change the game forever and has inspired many to see something more than just a sport. In 1962, Ernie Davis was diagnosed with acute monocytic leukemia. He immediately began treatment for this incurable disease and passed away the next year at the young age of 23. This seems so young to have your life dramatically changed and to be taken from you within the year. It makes me realize how far research and treatment has come since the '60s. These days, if you catch blood cancer soon enough, you have a very good chance of beating it. All of the advancements wouldn't be able to happen without the money to fund the research and tests. I feel so thankful that I have had the opportunity to raise money to help find a cure! 

I have been so worried lately about disappointing myself in this marathon. Although I am not really trying to make a certain time, I have a goal time in mind, and have no idea how feasible it will be since this is my first marathon. In the past couple of weeks I have had to keep reminding myself that this isn't about me, it's about all of those people who have battled blood cancer. I am doing this for them. Although I have received several benefits from all of the training, it ultimately comes down to why I started this journey in the first place. I remember the day I got the news that my friend Ashley had Leukemia and how I would have done anything for her to not have gone through what she did. I am using my legs and strength to run a marathon and to raise as much money as I can to help find a cure. Although my mere $4700 seems so little compared to what it really costs for research, my South Carolina team will have raised more than $40,000 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by the time we get to the starting line. And with all of the Team In Training participants this year, we should raise $18 million dollars through the Nike Women's Marathon alone. That is a huge amount of money and hopefully one day soon, there will be a cure.