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| Jennifer's Marathon Run for a Reason |
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| On October 5th 2008, I will be running the Portland Marathon! That’s 26.2 miles, and yes all at once. I am training for this event all on my own. I am very committed to proper training techniques that will allow me to achieve my goal of crossing the finish line.
More important than my physical commitment to the program is my commitment to raise funds for the Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDC) Program. The SUDC organization, a program of the CJ Foundation for SIDS, has been developed to provide a centralized resource for information, support and advocacy. It serves families and professionals affected by the tragedy of SUDC, and promotes awareness of SUDC in communities. SUDC is the sudden and unexpected death of a child over the age of twelve months, which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation is conducted. SUDC is a diagnosis of exclusion - given when all known and possible causes of death have been ruled out. SUDC is not a new phenomenon, but it is very rare. Its incidence is approximately 1 death per 100,000 children. In comparison, the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is 50 times more common, being approximately 1 death per 2000 live born infants. It is not surprising; therefore, that there is very little known in the medical literature about SUDC. Significant progress is being made in finding plausible causes for this tragedy. Researchers are not only hoping to find a reason for why SUDC occurs but also have hopes for prevention.
SUDC is close to my heart. I am not only running this race for the cause, but also in memory of one child in particular. On May 23rd, 2005, Preston Jack Drummond passed away at the age of 21 months from SUDC. He was a happy, healthy, energetic little boy. His Mom Amanda, Dad Brandon, and siblings Dakota and Alivia miss him so much. They have no answers as to why their precious boy is gone.
Research is the key to finding out why and funding for this research is essential. I have set a personal goal to raise $1000 toward this effort.
As I run the 26.2 mile marathon, you will be with me in spirit, and your sponsorship will inspire me to run stronger and faster to the finish line. Any contribution you can make matters…it all adds up! With 100% of your donation going directly to SUDC, you truly can make a difference.
Thank you so much for your support and generosity! |
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Total donations: $534
Goal: $1,000
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