I am so proud to be running the 2014 Philadelphia Marathon on November 23 for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. I was first exposed to this charity in 2012, when my brother-in-law Michael Given raised funds after the NYC Marathon was cancelled due to Superstorm Sandy. When I learned Alex's story, I was moved beyond words. When I decided to run Philly, having already contributed to this cause in the past, I decided there was more I can do.

In my profession as a Geriatric Social Worker, I seldom have the opportunity to tend to many causes unrelated to that which benefits our aging Americans. In my search for balance, I could not come up with a better-run organization, whose fundraising goes directly towards the cause, with a proven track record for success. ALSF is a natural fit to which I would align myself. Now, I am sharing this opportunity with you all.

I am so very impressed with the philanthropic attitude so many of my friends and families have displayed all summer long, and it goes to show that awareness and fundraising are synonymous. It suggests that people will part with their time and hard-earned money, though both are so short in demand for many of us, if we BELIEVE in the cause.

So, if you BELIEVE we will be free of Childhood Cancer one day...

If you BELIEVE you can play a part in this by spreading awareness and donating what you can...

If you BELIEVE that a 20-year old, family-run charitable organization, devoted to finding ways to rid our world of cancer is in alignment with your principles... and....

If you BELIEVE I will do the work....I will run the miles....I will make the sacrifices that come with Marathon Training, then I cordially invite you to support my very worthy cause. Thank you for generously donating your valuable time and money towards finding a cure for Childhood Cancer!!! GO TEAM LEMON!