(for more information click on Rock n roll link)

Dear Family and Friends,

Every five minutes someone in the United States learns that they have leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma.  Although survival rates for people stricken with blood related cancers have dramatically improved over the past 30 years as a result of the research funded by the Society, more help is needed.

That is why I ask for your support as I train to complete the Rock ‘n' Roll Marathon on May 31, 2009 in San Diego, California.  Team In Training is an endurance training program for runners, walkers, cyclists and triathletes.  Team members train in honor of a leukemia or lymphoma patient while raising funds to support The Society's programs of research and patient services.

While this organization is usually set up to help runners train for their first marathon, I wanted to do this since the money goes directly to this excellent cause. When I get up early on Saturday mornings to train, my extra inspiration will be my good friend and patient hero, Patrick Savini. Patrick was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma in December of 2008. After completing six cycles of chemotherapy, he will need to have a bone marrow transplant.  His optimism and great attitude through all of this has inspired me to help.   Attached is a picture of myself and Patrick.

My goal, in addition to crossing the finish line, is to raise $4,700 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I'm hoping you will be able to help me reach my goal. Your donation will not only help save the lives of those afflicted with blood-related cancers, but make their lives more comfortable and manageable while they are fighting - and beating - the disease.

Please send any donations, made payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, directly to me at the address listed below.  Or you could make an on-line donation at my website http://pages.teamintraining.org/de/rnr09/cjameslbzs

Remember, all donations to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society are 100% tax deductible.  On behalf of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the entire Team In Training organization, thank you for your support.

Christopher James

West Street