Mom would have turned 75 on September 15th this year. Aunt Helen would be turning 74 in a couple months. Big Phil might still be meticulously chipping away at a project...

We've all got a cancer story somewhere close to us.

I smoked for 20 years. In March, I decided to try to run some - to try to get in better shape and also "give back" a little to my heart and lungs. I know I hadn't taken care of them, and I often worried they'd fail me if I pushed on them too hard.

This summer, I decided to sign up for a 5k race in November, and as I've gotten in my training runs 4 times a week, I've done things I never thought I would. For one, I often wake up at 5:30, lace up my shoes and head out for more than an hour before returning to make breakfast for us, see Rachael off to work and spend the day with Augie.

When this challenge popped up - run 100 miles in October to raise money to support the American Cancer Society, it felt like it fit this moment for me. 100 miles in a month, though... That's more than a 5k every day of the month. That's a bit of a stretch for training for a 5k! But with a push and your support running for a good cause, I know it's within reach.

So let's do this!

When I hear that alarm in the morning, when I'm out there plodding away in the dark, mile after mile, I'll carry them & your support with me all the way. Thank you.

All donations go directly to the American Cancer Society.