Last fall, I was introduced to Team McGraw and the Tug McGraw Foundation by my friend, Alexis Morgan Saunders, a Team McGraw fundraiser and an all-around incredible, inspiring person, even in the midst of her own battle with brain cancer. The Foundation’s mission – to support research that will improve quality of life for those confronted with brain tumors and to raise awareness of the disease – immediately hit close to home.

My grandfather, Johnnie Ray Hardee, Sr., lost his own battle against brain cancer in July 2002. Since then, I have sought the right opportunity to honor his memory and to contribute to the fight against the disease. When Alexis introduced me to Team McGraw, I found the opportunity I had been searching for!

I’m not a doctor, so I can’t help treat it. I’m not a scientist, so I can’t help research it. But, I am an avid (albeit slow-moving!) runner, so I can lace up my running shoes and take to the streets for the Tug McGraw Foundation.

On November 1st, I will be joining Team McGraw for the 2009 ING New York City Marathon. As a member of the team, I am raising funds to support the Foundation and its efforts to improve the physical, social, spiritual, and cognitive well-being of adults and children with brain tumors, as well as their families and caregivers. Please consider supporting these efforts with a donation in whatever amount you are able to give. I truly believe that each of us can make a difference and that every little bit helps.

Thank you so much for your support as I embark on this journey with Team McGraw and the Tug McGraw Foundation. I will run every step of the way…

In memory of my Grandpa and the good and honest life he lived...

In honor of Alexis and survivors like her who are fighting their own brave battles...

In appreciation of the doctors and researchers who are committed to improving their quality of life...

In gratitude for every dollar generously donated to enable these efforts.

"Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1