Mason Five Years Later!

As you may know, Mason had a brain tumor removed by the neurosurgeons at CHOC in 2004. The tumor was further complicated by hydrocephalus, water on the brain, which required a second surgery just 10 days later. It was a difficult time for our family, but over the years, Mason has recovered beautifully. Today, 5 years since his surgery, I am thrilled to report that Mason is a happy, healthy, 8 year old boy. In 2006, I set a goal to raise $100,000 for the CHOC Children’s (CHOC) in honor of our son, Mason by completing my first Ironman Triathlon in Canada.

Due to the generosity of my supporters, I not only met my goal, but surpassed it - raising nearly $150,000 for the CHOC Children's Neuroscience Institute.

On October 10th 2009, I will be participating in the Hawaii Ironman World Championship. This will be my 5th Ironman race but more importantly, it marks five years since Mason’s brain surgery and continued good health. The race consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run and I am a launching campaign to bring in $50,000 for the CHOC Children's Neuroscience Institute.  Competing in this triathlon and raising money for CHOC is my way of honoring our son, Mason and the team who took care of him when he was critically ill.

Over the past 5 years, my wife Ivette and I have become actively involved with CHOC; I currently serve on the CHOC Children's Foundation Board of Directors. As a family, we are committed to helping make a difference for the children of Orange County.

To help me reach my goal, I would deeply appreciate any amount you are able to give. The support I received in 2006 really helped keep me going through the long months of training and proved to me that together we really did make a difference. I want to continue making a difference in the lives of children and I hope you will once again join me on that journey.

Many thanks,

Mark Moses
Member, CHOC Children's Foundation Board of Directors