People who know me well know that I spend a lot of my free time running roads and trails, usually in training for an upcoming marathon or ultramarathon. Prior to my addiction with distance running, I spent a few years doing triathlons and logging 2,000 to 3,000 miles annually on my road bike, but in recent years my biking activity has dropped to about 10-15% of that mileage.
I'll be changing things up a bit in 2024 and getting back on the bike in preparation for the Trek Across Maine to raise money and awareness for lung health education, research and advocacy efforts.
Most of us likely know someone who has suffered from some form of lung disease, whether it be lung cancer, asthma, emphysema or something else. I certainly do, having witnessed the battle my father fought with lung cancer, which ultimately took his life in 2006.
I first learned about the Trek Across Maine in supporting my good friends Mark and Jackie Villinski, and their daughters Brooke and Nicole, all of whom have participated as riders and/or volunteers, based on their own experience of having lost close family members to lung disease.
In 2023, I joined at the finish on day 3 to see Mark's team cross the finish line, and I was moved by the energy of all the staff, volunteers and riders. Aside from supporting a very worthwhile cause, it also looked like a lot of fun!
With a little nudge from Brooke and Nicole, I decided that I would join the team for 2024.
Please join me in my efforts to make a difference by making a personal or corporate tax-deductible donation.
Thank you in advance for you support!