Dear friend,

My marathon is another "something good that came out of Covid" story. Pre-Covid, swimming was my primary way to work out, with occasional biking and racquetball. When Covid hit, I retreated from the gym. Needing some way to work out safely, I started running outside a few days each week. I enjoyed the runs and they refreshed me not only physically but also mentally, which was much needed. One day, the idea to compete in a marathon randomly popped in my head. I looked up training plans, got myself a phone holder, and timed my runs. I felt like a pro. :) A few months later, in May 2021, I completed my first half-marathon, the Berry Half.

A few weeks later I resumed training for the full marathon. The training did not go as smoothly this time. Over the next several months, I was running in fits and starts, hampered by pain. I did not want to injure myself, so I was cautious and stopped running if the pain was even moderate. After the Covid situation got better, I started swimming again for strength training. I ran a few long runs. Then, I signed up for the Missoula Marathon. I'll be aiming to complete my first marathon on June 26! :)

I need your support to complete my marathon. Please pray that my legs can carry me for 26.2 miles. Please consider contributing to my fundraiser for Youth Homes, a Montana nonprofit organization that works with at-risk children and their families.  As a member of their Run 4 Kids Team, I have committed to the goal of raising $500 and I will participate in the Missoula Marathon on June 28th in honor of the children who have benefited from the Youth Homes programs.

Each day the Youth Homes organization serves over 300 children and families in Western Montana through their emergency shelters, therapeutic group homes, foster care and adoption programs and counseling services. Over 90% of these kids improve their grades and stay in school and nearly 95% graduate or get their GED. I feel fortunate to have this chance to make a difference in the lives of local youth. I will keep these children’s stories in my mind and in my heart as I train and gear up for this exhausting adventure.

I invite you to help me meet my fundraising goal to help children and families heal. Would you consider donating $52.40 ($2 / mile) to support Youth Homes? Anything more is welcome. Anything less is welcome. I am very grateful for contributions of any amount!!

All donations are tax-deductible. Please consider asking your employer if they do company matches on donations that you make.

With gratitude,
Joseph