Laura's Team In Training Race for a Cure

Racing to Save Lives

UPDATE: Sad news everyone. Our dearest Connie passed away Sunday 09/24/06. The loss is profound as she was simply extraordinary. I ask that you please keep Kristy & Mike in your prayers during this difficult time. Thanks so much for all your prayers and support!

Dear Family and Friends,

As many of you may already know, I lost my brother, Neal, to cancer last year. Then a mere 6 months later, his wonderful wife, Connie, was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. We were all stunned. Though Neal lost his battle, the tenacity with which he fought the disease for four years truly inspired me. Now, I see Connie persevere with the same resolve as my brother to never give up. Connie is still fighting, and her struggle remains a daily one. Again, I feel virtually helpless in her plight. I'd always thought there had to be something more that I could do than pray. This past spring, I found that something.

I joined The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training and I'm currently training to participate in the El Tour de Tucson November 18, 2006. It is a 109 mile cycling event in which all of us on Team In Training are participating to raise funds to help stop blood cancers from taking more lives. I'm completing this century ride in honor of both Connie and Neal. Each week, the training becomes harder and the rides get longer… but I remind myself that this is nothing when compared to all they've endured. In fact, all individuals who are battling blood cancers are heroes of our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!

You’re probably wondering “Why on earth has she volunteered to race over 100 miles? She's gone insane!” I'm quite sane, I’ve just chosen to join a team of very dedicated and generous people raising serious money for Leukemia and Lymphoma research.

Studies show the research is working. The survival rate for leukemia victims has risen from 4% in 1960 to 81% in the last decade. My personal commitment to the continued success of this research is $5000 – a significant goal for myself yet a small sacrifice for a very worthy cause. Your contributions, regardless of how much, are needed. Even if you can't give financially at this time, your thoughts and prayers are welcome to help get me and my teammates across the finish line.

For everyone that gives, you’ll have my deepest appreciation. Please support me in this effort by making a tax deductible contribution to the Society’s mission in my name either here on my website or by sending your check made payable to LLS to:

Laura Perdue Rappè - PO Box 812 - Aubrey, TX 76227

Thank you and God Bless.