Three weeks to race day!

I can hardly believe that the race is only three weeks away! This week, I had a treat to change the pace of my training. I have recently returned to Ohio to visit Alex, and of course I would continue to train alone, but how much sweeter it is to have other to do it with... So I contacted Team in Training in Toledo to run with their group! The group was small, but that was wonderful for me! I was so excited to experience the closeness of their group!

On Saturday at 7 AM I met their group of 6 at Farnsworth Park in Waterville, OH, which runs along the Maumee River. This was a beautiful run! Cool, scenic, and accommodating (restrooms and water fountains along the way!). And after I ran, I waited with the others who had finished early for the rest of the group. Then, we went out to breakfast together! I loved the camaraderie that the team had developed! What an excellent addition to my TNT experience! I will continue to train with them in the coming three weeks before my race in San Diego.

Now on to what is on my mind most at the moment... FUNDRAISING! With only ONE WEEK remaining until my fundraising deadline, I have reached only 72% of my goal. As a result, if I do not raise the full amount within that week, I have committed to donating the remaining funds from my own finances. While this will be quite a load to bear, I have committed to it. I am becoming quite nervous as the deadline approaches, but I have faith that I will reach my goal. When dedicating ourselves to being a member of Team in Training, we are given a fundraising minimum. In my case, $2,900 is the minimum in order to attend the San Diego Rock & Roll Marathon. However, if we do not reach that minimum, we must prove the remaining funds in order to race.

If you have not given to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through my Team in Training race, please consider doing so. If you have given or feel compelled, please forward my information to friends and family who might be able to help. Any amounts are greatly appreciated!

You may donate securely online by using this link (and receive receipt):

http://pages.teamintraining.org/nce/rnr10/akollay

I am sincerely thankful for all of the support that my family and friends have shown, both financially and emotionally. Your encouragement is unmatched and so appreciated!