When my sister invited me to run the Disney Princess Half Marathon, I was tempted only by my love for Disney. The running part? No, thank you. But then I remembered Girl Power 2 Cure has a team that races to benefit Rett Syndrome research, and I was in! As several of you know, Rett Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that affects mainly girls, appearing around 6-18 months after birth, and severely inhibiting their ability to walk, talk, eat, and even breathe easily. The girls I know with Rett Syndrome are courageous, intelligent, and creative; I am honored to run on their behalf. For further explanation about Rett Syndrome and Girl Power 2 Cure, see the link below:

http://www.girlpower2cure.org/our-cause/what-is-rett-syndrome

Many of you know that I had the privilege of befriending and caring for two girls with Rett Syndrome for several years. Blythe, Catherine, and their families are close to my heart; I consider the years I've had with them a gift.

I've known Blythe since she was five months old...and now she's in HIGH SCHOOL. Since she was a baby Blythe has had a wise, old soul, and a sense of humor beyond her years. I've treasured getting to see Blythe, and her siblings, Fiona and Noah, grow from these spunky, chunky-cheeked little people into incredible teenagers (who I really like!) 

Catherine and I met a few years ago: we bonded over the Muppets, french fries, and bouncing on the trampoline. This girl is tenacious! Catherine knows what she likes, and she is not afraid to let you know it. :) She and my older son became fast friends, and she instilled in him a love of Pete the Cat, which he has now passed down to his little brother. When Catherine's mom ran the Disney Princess Half a couple years ago, I thought it was the coolest thing! I'm excited for the opportunity to be on the team this year!

With my little ones at home now, it's hard to see and support Blythe and Catherine as much as I used to, but I can raise awareness and support for Rett Syndrome research. Although there is no cure for Rett Syndrome currently, research has proven that Rett Syndrome is CURABLE, and the findings will directly impact research for many other disorders. You may not know someone with Rett Syndrome, but you probably know someone who is affected by Alzheimer's or Autism; these are just a couple of disabilities that will benefit from a Rett Syndrome cure. If you're interested in contributing financially to this important research (and helping me reach my $500 goal) please click the “Donate Now” link below. Thank you for all your support!