Beverly's Road to Ironman Canada!
Racing to Save Lives!
Welcome!
I'm competing in Ironman Canada on August 27, 2006! I’m going through this grueling training program to benefit the over 108,000 people who will be diagnosed with a blood-born cancer this year.
UPDATE: My director and mentor for over 16 years at the Saratoga Recreation Department, Joan Pisani, was diagnosed this month with pancreatic cancer. I am honored to carry her name on raceday and I'm dedicating my race to her. Although she does not have a blood related cancer, the research funded by the Leukemia Lymphona Society benefits all cancer patients.
Additionally, I’m training in honor of my father, Jim Tucker, a cancer survivor; my aunt, Beverly Stern Staley, who lost her battle in 1992; and two other special people: Al Vollen and Luke Do. Al died on April 27, 2006 after a valient battle against acute myelogenous leukemia. Al underwent intensive chemotherapy, open heart surgery and a lifesaving stem cell transplant. Al was an amazing man and a good friend to me. After his treatment, Al completed two triathlons. As a motivational message to other triathletes, Al wrote:
“I firmly believe that I have gotten this far because of the love that is out there for me and whether you know it or not, your participation in this triathlon is part of that. An act of loving and giving to individuals yet unknown - much like my donor freely and openly gave his stem cells to someone unknown.”
Luke is six years old and was diagnosed with very aggressive juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia in 2001. His father, Lam told us, “On at least five occasions we thought Luke was sprouting wings and flying home to heaven.” Luke has been through chemotherapy, total body irradiation and a transplant rejection. During his treatment, he lost his hair, his speech, his ability to eat, stand and walk. He even converted blood types! Today Luke is currently doing well and is attending speech delayed pre-school.
The blisters, aches & pains from swimming, cycling & running several hundred miles on roads, pools and trails— will all be worth it when I cross the finish line!
I’ve committed to raising at least $7,500 and I need your help to do it! Please make a 100% tax deductable donation today. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has an incredible record of using 76% of fundraising dollars directly on research and patient services. So you’ll feel great donating and so will I!
Your donation will remind me that you are supporting me throughout my training and race. When I’m exhausted and ready to give up, I’ll remember all of my family, friends and supporters urging me on. We can do this together!
Thank you for your support!
Love,
Beverly
