 I wanted to raise funds for the kidney cancer association through running because it's a wonderful opportunity for me to give back to an organization that provided wonderful services and treatment and support to my dad throughout his seven-year diagnosis. When I fundraise, I really reach out to my friends, to my family, to members of the community that know me personally, that knew my dad, and let them know his story, let them know about his battle and his struggle and what he did to ensure that he lived for seven years to see me and my little brother graduate from college, which was his goal. Each mile when I'm running and when I'm training and it's hot outside and I'm uncomfortable and I just want to go home, I remember each day I'm running was easier than my dad's day at chemo. Kidney cancer took dad's life. It never touched his spirit and that's really what helps get me through the miles. Whether I'm going out on a short run or running 26, I really think of his battle and what he went through and how I'm able to give back to other families.