Berlin Calling

Dear Friends and Family

I had hoped to not have to send another fundraising request to support my marathoning efforts, but alas, fate will have it no other way.

But this time is a bit different.

The Scenario

Next month I plan to travel to Germany to run the Berlin Marathon. This will conclude a 6-year quest to complete the World Marathon Majors consisting of the Boston, Chicago, New York, London, Tokyo and Berlin marathons. I set out on this journey in 2015 when I ran the Boston Marathon after raising money for charity and found it to be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime.

Throughout the years, with the help of hundreds of friends, family members and colleagues, I have raised more than $35,000 for charities including Hale Reservation, the Leukemia Society and Autism Speaks. It has been an incredible journey we’ve taken together, helping so many along the way. 

Running the World Marathon Majors has been so many things: exhilarating, exhausting, gratifying, empowering, time-consuming, humbling, and admittedly a little bit crazy.

My last marathon major was Tokyo in March, 2019. I decided to take Fall 2019 off to rest. Little did I know that 2020 would be sabotaged by the pandemic. Like many, the pandemic has proved challenging for me. But what it has amplified for me is my deep love of running and my commitment to completing this journey - a journey enjoyed by just a few more than 1,200 people to date.

As recently as yesterday, Berlin has communicated that the marathon will go on as planned. Luckily Germany’s infection rates are low and the race organizers are requiring all runners to provide proof of having received an approved vaccination. All signs are pointing to “go”.

The Dilemma

I have been saving for this trip for almost 2 years now. And then, as fate would have it, our precious Golden Retriever, Lacey (most beloved member of our family) unexpectedly fell ill last week. I am happy to report that she is home now resting, but only after two and a half days in the veterinary hospital and a very large vet bill. That vet bill, as it turns out, was a very good chunk of my Berlin travel savings.

So - for the first time, I’m actually fundraising . . . for myself. It feels odd, and I don’t really like it. You know how proud I can be (many might even call me stubborn). But I desperately want to complete this journey and I fear that if I don’t make it happen this year - well, who knows.

The Solution

If you can spare a little $ and would like to pay it forward, I would be very very grateful. Any amount is appreciated but please do not feel pressured at all. I am aware of life’s many demands.

I thank you so very much for believing in me and supporting me and so many charities throughout the years. I carry each and every one of you in my heart every single mile I run.