I can’t believe I’m here gain. Where have the last two years gone? 2016 marked the first year I ran Twin Cities 10-mile on behalf of Children’s Minnesota for a program near and dear to my heart, Charity Care. I set out to raise awareness and inspire change, but what I didn’t realize was that the experience would change ME forever. It wasn’t the long runs or the aches and pain of training, but the stories of patients and their families that would leave a mark on my heart.  As an employee, I get to see amazing every day. And when you see amazing, it changes you; it changes you in ways you’d never dream possible.

On October 7, 2018 I will be lacing up my running shoes again. I’m not a “runner” or naturally an athlete, but I have been a patient. I have been so fortunate in my struggle with a chronic illness to have the support and care that I need. Now it’s my turn to pay this blessing forward. I’m running for kids. I’m running so they can receive the best care possible. I’m running so no parent has to choose between staying bedside with their ailing child and losing their job. I’m running to give families, at their most vulnerable, peace of mind.  At Children’s, no family is turned away regardless of their ability to pay. Philanthropy makes this possible.

The next coming months won’t be easy. I have hundreds of miles ahead of me before I reach the start line. There will be days when I won’t want to lace up my shoes. There will be days when I will prefer sleeping in over doing my long run. Then, I’ll remember why I’m doing this—the KIDS!

Please consider supporting the important work of Charity Care. No gift is too small and every cent is kid spent.

I look forward to carrying your generous spirits and hearts with me every step of the way.

With Gratitude,

Bieta