I’m pretty excited for my new adventure. I'm going to participate in the Lavaman Triathlon taking place in Hawaii in March as a representative of Waikoloa Beach Resort. No, I’m not a triathlete, I’ve done one in my life, along with a marathon and honestly its just not my thing, so this will be a major challenge for me. 

So, It’s one thing to accept a challenge like this from a physical perspective, that’s fun for me, But I had to ask myself about why I’m doing this and how can I make this important and special for me, my family and the amazing resort I represent as part of my Fathers legacy! So as part of this challenge, I’m going to compete to raise money and awareness for those suffering with addiction. This is a cause I am very passionate about and will do anything for. 100% of the money raised will help fund addiction programs and education on the Big Island of Hawaii! I have many beautiful family and friends who suffer from all kinds of addiction and I want to do something to help. This is a disease, and one we need to understand and accept as if it was cancer. We have to remove the idea of shame surrounding it, so for each mile of the swim, bike or run I will dedicate and honor those who are afflicted with this disease. My goal is to raise $10,000 and I PROMISE you I will put every penny directly to work to help individuals or organizations that assist addicts get the assistance they need. This is a worldwide crisis, just look at the below graph, it’s shocking!  I would bet that just about everyone I know has been affected in some way by this horrible disease! Please help! This is an epidemic that desperately needs our attention. 

As I’ve been training or should I say suffering, I’ve been inspired by the struggles, triumphs and everyday grind of those afflicted with this disease. It helps me get up everyday on these cold winter mornings and, jump in the pool, run hard, bike long and finish strong. So, on my long run this Sunday, it came to me…I want to honor our beautiful addicts by having them join me on the day of my race. What I’m going to do is this…….for each person that donates $50 or over I am going to create YOUR very own MyIntent Bracelet (see photo) with YOUR very own word and the INITIALS of the Addict OR PERSON you would like me to compete for. For example, my bracelet will have “DETERMINED AND KK” on it. I will wear ALL of these bracelets  on the day of the race so EVERYONE gets to compete with me whether they are present or not. At the end of the race, I will mail YOUR bracelet to you so you will always remember that you or your loved one are not alone on this journey, we are in it together. Each mile of the race will be dedicated to those that I am racing for. I will reserve the swim, the hardest for me, for my person, for someone I love deeply that is in the struggle of his life and I will reserve the last mile, the FINISH for my unbelievably amazing, super cool, inspirational brother Mark Boeddeker who has been sober for almost 8 years. You think I do crazy stuff, wait until you meet him. I’m honored to be able to do this and honored to compete for each of your loved ones. So donate NOW. For those that have donated, please email me ([email redacted]) your word and the initials of who you would like on the bracelet. So excited for this!!!! If you need help with your word, Go to www.myintent.org

I know there are so many awesome charities, but today, right now, this is the one you want to give to, I promise, you wont regret it and you’ll see your investment change lives. I really appreciate you taking the time to read this! Love always, Live Big , www.lavamantriathlon.com 
and www.waikoloabeachresort.com