It is with great trepidation that I announce that I am running the Marine Corps Marathon in 2008. Trepidation because I did this in 2006-before I knew better, and now I have a clear understanding of what lies ahead of me.

My uncle claims that I posed the challenge to him. I must have been drinking whiskey that night, because it is really not coming back to me. But my uncle, being the man that he is, took the challenge, and well...ran with it. He learned about Hope for the Warriors and plotted out a personal mission that only the most unreasonable man would dare to attempt: to handbike over 2008 miles and raise $26,200 for Hope for the Warriors.

Each time my uncle convinced me to race, I found myself absorbing his craziness (read: determination) more and more. Now I find myself undertaking his mission as well.

My uncle and I have been racing together since 2007, and this year (if I can keep up) I will have the honor of crossing the finish line with him at the Marine Corps Marathon in October. And most importantly, we hope to raise money for Hope for the Warriors, an incredible organization whose mission is to enhance quality of life for US Service Members and their families nationwide who have been adversely affected by injuries or death in the line of duty. The people who run the organization are just as tremendous as the people they serve, and I am honored to be a part of Team Hope for the Warriors in 2008.

I hope you will consider making a donation to this mission, no matter how big or small. Each little bit will add up to everything. My personal goal is to raise a minimum of $1000, but all of the funds I raise will count towards the ultimate goal of $26,200. So even when we get to $1000, we will keep going! You can help us get there! I hope you will follow along at home by visiting the blog:

And now, I better get to training...or drinking whiskey. Thank you for your support!