Several weeks ago I committed to completing the Nations Triathlon on September 11 of this year.

I’ve chosen to train with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training as they’re the only ones who have a program for people like me – couch potatoes who dream of finishing an Ironman Olympic distance triathlon.

And if that wasn’t crazy enough, I’ve recently committed to completing the Rohto Ironman 70.3 in Miami on October 30, 2011.

I’m not gonna lie. Training’s been tough. My body aches every day.

Every. Day.

I’m not quite sure what it is that keeps me going, but I’m going and that feels so good. There have been a number of times when I’ve tried to do this very same thing, but I always flaked out on my training. This time things are sticking. I guess it’s true what they say… timing is everything.

Perhaps the gumption is founded in the race itself. I think this particular race resonates with me because it is the NATION’s Triathlon. Not just any triathlon, but the Nation’s. The U.S. of A’s. Yours. Mine. Ours.

All together.

United.

It also happens to fall on the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. And will be raced in D.C. (I’ll be swimming in the Potomac!)

Perhaps it’s because I’m proud to be a military spouse and former military brat. Or maybe it’s because I’ve known so many friends and family who have been and still continue to be effected by 9/11 and the following wars. Military spouses, friends, who’ve lost their husbands. Friends and family who’ve all been deployed for great lengths multiple times, over and over. Away from their families. Sacrificing.

Maybe it’s all of the above? Likely.

Whatever “it” is… it’s helping to make my success happen.

*****

There are two parts to my success. First, my training. Second, my fundraising to help find a cure for cancer.

That second part is where I need your help, dear virtual and IRL friends.

My goal is to raise $3500 for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s cancer research.

For those of you who know me well enough, you know that I find it extremely difficult to ask people for help. Which is why this whole fundraising thing is just so unnatural for me.

So I’m taking a risk. I’m stepping out of my comfort zone – something my honored team-mate, Michaela who has a blood cancer, has to do every day – and using my platform to ask for your help.

Please make a donation to support my participation in Team In Training and help advance the Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s mission.

No donation is too small. Really. Every little bit helps.

Please take the time to visit my Team In Training Fundraising website to pledge your support (or click on the nifty little “Donate Now” button found on the Team In Training widget, housed in my sidebar). Check back often to peek at my progress. I’ll be writing about the journey here as well as on my Team in Training website.

Thank you friends, all, for your support!