The Tuesday, September 11 attacks on New York and Washington, D.C. makes us question whether we are naive to the realities around us. Our celebrity gossip, our stock portfolios, our political scandals seem unimportant right now. At the same time we see Americans, volunteering, providing support and united in patriotism. It is this side of American life that is the envy of the world. America continues to lead the way in international relief, compassion and medical advances.

It is about these medical advances and their global impact that I write this today. I have joined the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training and taken on the enormous challenge of running the Walt Disney World Marathon in Orlando, FL on January 6, 2002, to raise $3,500 for medical research for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma.

Clearly I have a long way to go, as do the researchers working to find a cure. I have already started my training, running four times per week to reach my goal of 26.2 miles.

I am running for four-year-old Caitlin Cramblit, in memory of Amber Williams, and the many thousands of other leukemia and lymphoma patients and those who will be diagnosed in the future.

Please join me in supporting this worthy cause by donating however you feel led. Even donations of $1.00 per mile help me reach my goal and help millions of people throughout the world. Please also remember to donate blood for the victims of the September 11 attacks.

God Bless.

Christy