Help Me Run the NYC Marathon and Fight Cancer

I have exciting news. I was able to snag an entry ticket for the New York City Marathon in November. What's even more exciting? I snagged a spot on Livestrong's Team Fatty to raise money to fight cancer while I train.

For those who don't know Fatty, he's a cycling blogger who lost his wife to breast cancer about a year ago. He's done some amazing work with the Livestrong Foundation to raise funds to help fight cancer.

So this is a big deal for a couple reasons. First, the New York City Marathon is HUGE. Some forty thousand athletes attend and it's not easy to get a slot to race. I'm feeling really lucky to get to explore New York for the first time in the spirit of a giant athletic event.

Second, cancer hits close to home. I'm sure that's the same for many of you. So I will raise funds and run in memory of Grandma, Mrs. Bachand and Aunt Kathy, and will run in support of Aunt April, Angela and Dr. Leon.

Here's where I need help. I need to raise $3,500. I've promised Livestrong that I will raise that amount and they're holding my credit card hostage until I do. If you're able to, you can donate to my fundraising page here.

I did some really hard math and figured out that if everyone donates just $10, I'll only need 350 people to donate. Here's also where I could use your help. I'm a hermit and spend my spare time running with my dog in the mountains, so my social circle is about as impressive as my favorite wool running socks that I stitched back together after Kona had fun with them. If anyone's up for it, please link my fundraising page to your facebook page, twitter account, blog post etc. Spread the word because I think if we do, we'll be able to throw that fundraising number out of the ballpark, and that would be a big hit against cancer.

Even our girl Kona benefits. We'll be out for more long runs in the coming weeks. So Kona asks for your support too. Who could resist that face?

There's a roll call on the side of my fundraising page that names everyone this race is for. I'm not sure how it works, so if you can't add a name to that when you donate, please list your names in the comments here. Simply write: "In memory of" or "In support of." I will compile all these names on an article of clothing (not sure what just yet) and wear it during the marathon.

Thanks a ton for your support. I'll update on my progress and bring you more running with Kona stories as we train!