My earliest running experiences were as a child running with my dad. Laps around the block together after work, long runs on the weekends. Eventually we would travel together to a REAL run...an hour-drive to the big town of Dallas, Texas for the annual 8-mile Turkey Trot around White Rock Lake.

33 years later, I recently rediscovered the embroidered patch from that event…and I treasure both the patch and the memory of sharing that with my dad.

Now…as program director for Team McGraw, the endurance program in support of brain tumor research through the Tug McGraw Foundation, I coach and support runners from across the country as they represent inspiring individuals – often members of their own families – that have been touched by this disease.

I had planned to join my team in the running of the ING New York City Marathon on November 1. However, at the last minute, I chose not to run so as to fully dedicate my support to their efforts during the race. We had 39 runners take to the starting line...AND ALL 39 CROSSED THE FINISH LINE!

Now it’s my turn. This weekend, I will travel from Nashville, TN to Las Vegas for my own running of the Rock and Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon. This will be my sixth Rock 'n' Roll event this year, all run in support of Team McGraw, including my running of the Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon only three weeks ago.

I dedicate this run to Richard Isdahl. I learned of Richard’s battle with three brain tumors through my friend - his daughter-in-law, Diana Schweiger. The Schweiger family has long been a friend of the Tug McGraw Foundation, and I ran alongside Diana as she celebrated Richard in her own running of the half marathon in San Jose this fall.

I love his story and his spirit. Served in the Navy. Dedicated father and grandfather. “Salt of the earth,” as they say. He has fought back cancer before; at 71, he stands tall and ready to fight again…and is already looking forward to his next elk hunting trip!

Oh, yeah. As keyboardist for country singer Tim McGraw, I can’t help but note…he LOVES country music!

Thank you for joining Richard, his family, and me as we partner together to support greater quality of life brain tumor research through Team McGraw; your donation is much appreciated.

I’ll do the running…but Richard will be right there with me.