If my life wasn't nutty enough, I have recently taken on a new challenge. I plan to complete the Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon on July 18th. I am running this race to raise money for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) with my roommate from college, Deirdre, who has it. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are known together as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is estimated that 1.4 million Americans have IBD, however many more suffer in silence. It most often affects people between the ages of 15 and 40.

I hope my effort makes a difference in fighting a disease that affects so many. As a member of Team Challenge, I have a coach, a training program and teammates to support me. I am making time to train and I've promised to raise $3,800 in donatations to CCFA. I AM COMMITTED!!

Please consider supporting me in this half marathon. Together we can make a difference! Whatever donation you can make is greatly appreciated. A minumum of 80 cents per dollar raised goes directly to research and patient support, and your contribution is tax deductible. If your company matches charitable contributions, please include matching forms with your donation. You may pay by cash, write a check payable to CCFA (mail to me at 102 Nathan Drive, Morganville, NJ 07751) or you can make a secure online credit card donation to my web page: www.active.com/donate/boston10newjersey/KarenRunsNapa

Most importantly, please keep me in your prayers as I embark on this journey. Having 3 small children takes up most, if not all, of my time and this is a way for me to take some of that time back for myself, but in way where I am helping others as well. Thanks so much for your support! Go Team New Jersey!

Hugs, Karen

PS. If you know of anyone who has IBD and you would like me to run for them, please let me know their names and I will write them on my shirt!