Hello friends and family!
Hi Friends – I’m excited to hit the line this Saturday at 4 a.m. as I start my 7th Vermont 100-mile endurance run.
As many of you know, I decided to raise money for Vermont Adaptive (VA) again – a tradition that started back in 2014 when I attended what would be my first of many welcome dinners/race meetings the Friday before the race. At this fateful meeting, a mother and her daughter stood up and addressed the participants about the benefits they have received from VA. It was a moving presentation and really gave participants some real life experiences of the great work being done by VA. It made a lasting impression on me and gave me an incredible sense of gratitude to be a part of something so obviously epic.
And then at an aid station maybe 70 miles into the race I was struggling. I wanted to quit. Now all the volunteers throughout the race are amazing. But at that particular moment in time, a few kind words of encouragement hit me right in the heart. I dug deep, put my head down and got it done.
I had a realization after that race that I could be putting my legs to good use to help others. It’s really helped me with my training and my drive – because for me, there’s nothing I like more than helping others through running – something I absolutely love to do. It’s my Zen. My meditation. Everything comes out on the run. All of life’s problems seem to solve themselves on the long run. When I learned that I could help the organization that really made an impression on me at that first VT 100, it’s been an easy decision to sign up again and again.
To add - I believe that if I can do it, anyone can. Now some people around me have argued that point. But I truly believe if you want it bad enough, you can go out and get it. The discipline of training for this distance spills into all my affairs. I really think it makes me a better son, husband, father, worker and friend. The sense of accomplishment of completing a race like this is unmatched. There’s no parallel. And that’s something that no one can ever take away. It’s with you for life!
Please consider donating what you can to help me reach my goal and help Vermont Adaptive meet their goal too!
P.S. - The photo I chose for my profile makes me smile. My pops was a driving force and supporter of VA, along with my wife. And well my girls are older now. But I'm still trying to be the best role model I can.
Thank you for any help you can provide! And if your company has a matching gift program - please consider submitting your donation for a match.
MORE INFO:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org.