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I’m about to do something that’s completely new and different for me, and is going to change my life and hopefully the lives of many others. I am going to participate in the 13.1 mile Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon on December 2nd while fundraising for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, leading to research and better treatment options - and hopefully a solution - for people who are affected by these diseases.

Prior to attending the information meeting for Team Challenge, I didn’t know much about Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Now, I can tell you that Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease. They are chronic disorders that cause inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract - causing painful inflammation, intestinal bleeding, ulcerations, extreme fatigue, and the inability to absorb nutrients, among many other possible symptoms.

One may hear “digestive disease” and think “so what?” But in reality, these diseases are debilitating and takes control of people’s lives. They can lead to multiple surgeries (i.e. to have portions of intestines removed), malnutrition requiring feeding tubes, a high risk for cancer, and possible death due to the many complications.

Anyone can be diagnosed with IBD - regardless of age, gender, ethnicity - and children are the fastest growing population. People you know may be affected by these diseases but you would not know it because those who are don’t often talk about it.

I have decided to take on this challenge for many reasons. For one, I've always had the thought in my mind of running in a marathon. I thought to myself I would run in one some day. Coincidentally, I saw a good friend of mine doing marathons for a cause which I speak of. He asked me to join and I didn't give it a second thought. Another reason; as I look at the world today, it feels like we are at time where there is more headbutting than progression which kind of brings the world to stand still. Every little thing we do has a negative or positive affect on the world. I am choosing my affect to be positive! Doing this race allows my world to spin and progress! Hopefully your world is spinning and progressing or you would like it to, so lets combine worlds and get a positive spin!

Together, we can make a difference! As a member of Team Challenge, I have two coaches, a training program, and teammates to support me. I have committed to a training schedule with team group trainings on the weekends, and am motivated to raise $4000 in donations to The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America.

Eighty-two cents of every dollar CCFA spends goes to research, education, and support services. CCFA meets the standards of the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, and is highly rated by the American Institute of Philanthropy. If your company matches charitable contributions, please let me know. Thanks in advance for your good wishes, positive vibes and your generous donation towards a cure!

By now, I hope you agree with me about the importance of this cause. Please help support me by giving generously.