Running with Sam

Aaron and Andrea Ogle

Someone said this is a marathon, a long race, and I understand what they mean. - Rudy Carrasco (8/25/2004)

We never knew anyone with leukemia until we became acquainted with Sam Carrasco. Sam is like every other four year-old boy you know – funny, active, and adorable. But he is different in that he has a struggle no person, especially a child, should ever have to endure. Sam was diagnosed with leukemia this past summer and has at least four long years of treatment ahead of him.

Somebody once told Rudy that this situation is a marathon, a long race. I think that is a perfect analogy. Sam is not running a sprint, a quick and furious race that ends as quickly as it began. He is running a marathon, a race of patience, endurance, and determination. Unfortunately, Sam doesn't have a choice in his participation in this race. If he doesn't run then he dies. I, however, do have a choice. And I choose to run with Sam.

Today my wife Andrea and I would like to announce our participation in P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in honor of Samuel Job Mashariki Carrasco. We will be professionally coached and supported by Team in Training, an organization affiliated with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. In return, we have committed to raise $7500 to help the Society continue its blood cancer research, public education, and patient aid programs.

We need your support in whatever form you can offer. Your prayers, encouraging comments and emails, help getting the word out, or monetary donations are most appreciated. If you would rather send a check the make your donation out to Team in Training and mail it to:

A. Ogle
1939 Walnut Street
Camp Hill, PA 17011

Thank you so much for your support!

Running with Sam,
Aaron and Andrea Ogle