As a kid who was frequently the last one picked for most team sports in gym, I have a special place in my heart for those who struggle with physical fitness. I think that’s why I became a personal trainer. Eleven years ago I completed my first triathlon through the Team in Training program. This year I have been training for the last eight months to compete in my second Ironman event, which takes place in Houston, TX in two weeks.

While I am able to compete in endurance competitions like Ironman, there are many people who, because of cancer, cannot do such competitions. I would like to use the last two weeks of my training to raise money for the Livestrong at the Y program. This is a program that offers cancer survivors a free 12 week membership to the YMCA where they meet with a fitness instructor twice a week as a group to do weight training, cardio, balance training, and flexibility work. I have personally witnessed the transformation that occurs when someone who is scared or nervous about engaging in physical activity becomes confident, strong, and active for the first time in their lives. It is wonderful to see, and the major reason I became a trainer. Please join me in supporting this important work of the YMCA. Each 12 week series of Livestrong at the Y costs about $5000 and it helps so many people rediscover, or sometimes discover, fitness for the first time in their lives. If everyone reading this can just contribute $50-$100, or any amount really, we can reach that goal easily. Check out the video attached of people at our Y who have completed the program and please help out.

https://www.facebook.com/FarmingtonYMCA/videos/328505814446108/