My name is Kristen Hallock-Waters and I am a 37-year-old chemistry professor from southern New Jersey. I will be running the ING New York City Marathon 2008 in memory of my husband, Jeffrey Patrick Waters. Jeff fought a courageous four-year battle against glioblastoma multiforme and passed away in November 2007 at the age of 42. During his fight, Jeff endured four craniotomies, weeks of radiation therapy, over a dozen different chemotherapies, two cerebral hemorrhages, and months of rehabilitation. Through it all, he never complained. He never lost his hope, optimism, and incredible smile. Through much of his illness, Jeff was able to continue cycling, skiing, hiking, go-kart racing and working part-time as an environmental engineer. He tested the limits of what others believed possible for a brain tumor patient and inspired his family, friends, doctors, and other cancer patients with his strength, determination and quiet humility. He even completed the American Cancer Society Bike-a-thon just the day before heading to Duke for his 3rd craniotomy. Jeff participated in several studies sponsored by the Tug McGraw Center for Neuro-Oncology Quality of Life Research at Duke. He was committed to improving quality of life for brain tumor patients and to being part of the cure, if not for himself, for others. I am thrilled to be running with Team McGraw to honor Jeff’s indomitable spirit. Thank you for your contribution in memory of Jeff and toward improving quality of life for brain tumor patients.
(To read more about Jeff and Kristen's journey with brain cancer, visit their page online at www.myspace.com/Jeffsgbmbattle.)
|