I am very excited to be part of the 2009 Greater DC Team Challenge team. Team Challenge is the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's endurance training program and the proceeds will help the Foundation with their dedication and work to find a cure for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

I am more than two months into my training and I continue to feel inspired and motivated by my teammates. They remind me why I chose to run with Team Challenge. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis affects 1.4 million American adults and children, and your generous donations are an integral part to helping them fight this horrific disease. Our weekly training runs push us to increase our distance and time and I am so proud of my teammates’ progress to date. For many, this is their first race and half marathon!

On Sunday April 5, I participated in the Cherry Blossom 10-miler in DC. While most of the race was spent weaving my way around the crowds, I crossed the finish line with my running partner and could not have been happier with my race pace! Now that spring has finally arrived in DC, I intend to increase my pace and endurance in the weeks leading up to the July 19 Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon.

I am half way to my fundraising goal and with your help and support I know I can exceed my goal and change the lives of those affected by the disease!

Love, Andrea