On June 1, 2003 I will be running my first marathon in over 2 years in San Diego. However, this marathon is a little different then the previous because this time I am running as a member of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training program. In doing so, I have committed to run, walk, or even crawl to the finish line as well as raise $4000 for leukemia research, patient aid, and community outreach programs. This program is important to me because I also volunteer on the fundraising committee for the Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Center of Long Island North Shore University Hospital, and have had the opportunity to meet some of the Center’s young patients.

My second motivation for training, running, and fundraising is my honored team patient, Nicole Apollo. I have not had the opportunity to meet Nicole yet but I have been able to talk to her through email. Nicole is 9 years old and is currently fighting her battle against Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia aka ALL (the most common form of pediatric leukemia). Nicole and her mom, Chris, keep a very positive outlook on what they are going through. Even though Nicole’s battle is of their utmost importance they still take the time to email all the members of Team In Training. This is a really special family who needs our help.