What's New:

This Sunday is the race! Watch my Twitter account @KevinABarnes for updates on my progress.

Thank you to everyone who joined me at Kafevino for on July 13 for the wine tasting fundraiser.

At the end of April, I was hospitalized for five days due to a blood infection, one of the many possible (and potentially dangerous) side effects of Crohn's disease. Although the incident set back my training, and despite the fact I must continue to receive daily IV antibiotics through May 21, I am more committed than ever to running and completing the Napa to Sonoma half marathon.

Update: I've been given the “all clear” to resume training on Sunday, May 22.

Final Online Date Auction Results — May 20, 5:00 PM:
Michelle H. and Karen H. submitted simultaneous $40 bids ($80 total) in the last 15 seconds of the auction. The “Message” line in both bids indicated they were to be taken out together as a “Double Date.” What a great surprising end to the auction! Thank you, Michelle, Karen and everyone else who has donated!

A Message for Family and Friends —
As many of you know, I've struggled with Crohn's disease since my early teenage years. For me, that translates to over 75 hospitalizations, nearly 20 surgeries (often on an emergency basis), a highly-restricted diet and an ongoing impact on my everyday live. And unfortunately I'm not the only one. It is estimated that as many as 1.4 million Americans have either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

The good news is that researchers are making progress against these diseases, breakthrough discoveries have begun to occur and suddenly finding a cure is a very real possibility.

On July 17th, 2011, I will run my fifth half marathon with Team Challenge to raise both awareness and the critical funds that will help lead us toward that cure. For the very latest news and information, visit the Team Challenge page on KevinABarnes.com.

Every day we're getting closer to a cure. Your support truly helps make a difference. Please make a donation using the box on the upper right.

Thank you in advance for your generous support!