There are just so many ways I can help make a difference, and surprisingly, it isn’t always all about me. (I know, I know!)

This year I thought I could best help by supporting Gregory Rutchik. Gregory is campaigning for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Greater Los Angeles Chapter as a Man of the Year 2009 for the Los Angeles.

I’ll admit, I’m a little biased. Not only am I supporting him in his campaign, but I did nominate him as a candidate. (which is why I’ll sneak in a little link for you to donate by clicking here)

During his 9 week campaign (which ends on March 29th) I’ve learned how the Man & Woman of the Year event differs from what we do when cycling for the LLS cause. The MWOY helps two children in each chapter. The Greater Los Angeles chapter has been working with two amazing children, Tyler Cordova and Kelly Delaney.

Watching these two at our most recent event really showed me that personal strength and courage comes from within at any age level. Tyler has certainly learned this, although he has had to learn more than any child should (how many 5 year olds can discuss the differences between prednisone and dexamethasone),

Speaking to Kelly’s mother at this same event, she told me how incredibly grateful she was for the generosity of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and that many strides have been made for cancer research and treatment enabling children like Kelly to return to a normal happy childhood.  I was overwhelmed with emotion when she said “We are eternally grateful for the chance given to Kelly to have her life back”.

If you are still thinking joining our Team US Cares (password Kickbutt) for the The Ride to Conquer Cancer, Benefiting The Princess Margaret, June 2008, now is the time to get registered! There are only 100 spots left and Rider registration will close soon.

Ride Guides are standing by to help register any of your friends, co-workers and family members. Call today at (416) 815-RIDE(7433) or register online at: http://conquercancer.ca.

Let’s be clear. You don’t have to be rich to participate in The Ride to Conquer Cancer. And you don’t have to be an athlete. Whether you’re 25 or 75, a fitness freak or couch potato, a banker or barista, you can absolutely do this.

The funds you raise will support critical, breakthrough cancer research at The Princess Margaret, one of the top 5 cancer research hospitals in the world.

We need YOUR help in making a difference. Like all of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives.

Each one of us going to Solvang has a fundraising commitment. The event is less than 2 weeks away and Rachael is $1,800 short of her commitment. Since she stopped working on Saturday’s to be sure she had time for training, she has lost income and now the job, so there is no way for her to make this up before March 8th, the day of the Solvang Century ride.

After 5 months of training it hardly seems right not to help her raise money for all individuals who are battling blood cancers.

Please click to help her and others cross the finish line against this terrible disease.