I am so thrilled for the opportunity to represent Children's Hospitals of MN as a part of Team Superstars in the 2015 Twin Cities Marathon!!!
Honestly, I am a bit nervous going into my training as this is only my second marathon and I am having to overcome a few injuries. However, I am more motivated than ever knowing that I am able to use my passion for running to support such a wonderful organization, amazing staff, and inspiring group of patients!!
The mission of the Children's organization is to promote the health of pediatric patients through high-quality, family-centered services, education, and research. I have personally witnessed this mission being carried out while working as a volunteer in the Cancer and Blood Disorders Clinic. Day after day, I watch as this exceptional staff goes above and beyond the responsibilities of their job for every patient and their family members. Care teams not only attend to the medical needs of their patients, but often go out of their way to make children smile and laugh throughout their visit. Despite the medical hardships these patients are facing, I can tell they truly enjoy their time in the clinic, and it is because of the efforts of the staff!
However, the greatest of these motivators for me is (of course)... the patients! For those of you who don't know me, several years ago I made the decision to pursue a career in medicine as a Pediatric Oncologist. Those of you who do know me definitely know that my life is dedicated to this goal, and I have been working hard towards it for a long time. Along this journey, I have experienced many apsects of medicine through work, volunteering, missions, and my education. While there are many things I love about this field, there is really only one that keeps me moving forward in this difficult process-- seeing a joyful expression on the face of a child in the midst of receiving medical care. Even if it is just for a moment, there is something so uniquely inspiring about seeing a child forget about their physical pain and just smile or laugh. Just be a child!!
Through volunteering at Children's, I have now met a group of individuals who also understand what this looks/feels like and just how important it is to a child's medical care! While I hope someday to be the one wearing the white coat... but right now I will settle for supporting the kind-hearted and compassionate doctors/nurses of Children's Hospitals of MN by running this marathon! Donate today and help me reach my goal of $750!!
