Hello!

Approaching the beginning of adulthood (yes, I will be turning 30 this year) has inspired me to make some changes in my life. The most important life change is to actively participate in something larger than myself – to make a difference. To honor my dad who died of cancer in 1999, I have chosen to do my part to help find a cure for the Lymphoma-Leukemia Society. I have recently joined Team In Training (TNT) to train for and participate in a half-marathon in Virginia Beach, Virginia on August 31, 2003. It is easily the biggest challenge I have ever faced but it is NOTHING compared to the challenges facing the countless people battling lymphoma, leukemia, myeloma and related blood cancers.

TNT is a nationwide fundraising program specifically targeted to raise money for research done by the Lymphoma-Leukemia Society. In exchange for providing training coaches, mentors, and techniques for marathons, century bicycle rides, and triathlons, TNT sets specific fundraising goals for each participant. 75% of the money raised is applied directly to research, patient aid, and community service programs for those affected with lymphoma, leukemia and related blood cancers.

As a source of inspiration for putting in the effort of training and fund raising, TNT assigns each participant a Team Ambassador Patient, someone who is battling or has battled cancer. My ambassador’s name is Erin Coster-Mullen. She is a young woman who is currently in remission from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. My other inspiration is my dad. He battled lymphoma for 5 years, enduring several rounds of chemotherapy, and a stem cell transplant and was preparing for a second stem cell transplant when he lost his battle. At the time of his death, his cancer had evolving into a sever case of leukemia, at which point, the doctors could not do anything further to help his body combat the cancer. When he was diagnosed, my dad chose to participate in a study for lymphoma, so I am trying to follow in his footsteps by participating the way I can – by helping to raise funds for the cure.

My fundraising goal is to raise a minimum of $3,400 by August 20, 2003. I personally have given to the cause and ask you to join me in my efforts by donating. Any donation amount you can afford will help researchers come one step closer to finding a cure for these horrific cancers and your contribution is completely tax-deductible. Please go to the donation page by clicking on the "DONATE" button on the left of the screen.

Your generosity is GREATLY appreciated-
Elizabeth Lorentz