Sara: St. Jude Marathon Weekend 2012

So back in May I decided I would run the St. Jude Half since it would be several months after my last half or race and a couple of months before the Princess Half. I had thought about signing up as a hero but wasn't sure I would be able to raise the money. Well, turns out the race filled up in record time and if I wanted to do it I would have to sign up as a hero. With the support and encouragement of some friends, I registered to run 13.1 miles for the children of St. Jude and also raise $500. One thing about me is a really don't like asking people for money but I took the challenge and ran with it - literally! I probably drove several FB friends crazy with my constant postings about raising money but it was totally worth it. This experience was probably the highlight of 2012 for me. It was definitely inspiring. I had the privilege of running with and for Team Ingram. Ingram is 4 years old and fighting brain cancer. His family's faith in God is inspiring. His sisters raised over $200,000 for St. Jude together - these girls are under 12 years old! Amazing!! Team Ingram raised over $412,000 this year! Here is Ingram's page to learn more about this amazing kid and his fight to overcome cancer - http://ingramdismuke.blogspot.com/

On Friday night I was able to attend the pasta party for heroes with my mom and a friend who was also on Team Ingram. I knew it would be an emotional night when I had to fight back the tears walking into the room with the other heroes and their families as St. Jude employees and/or volunteers were cheering for us and ringing cow bells or other noise makers. Ingram's family had the opportunity to share his story - well their story. The girls were honored with a special award for their fundraising success and Ingram encouraged everyone to "get your move on!" It was a special night for all involved.

Saturday was the big race. There were tons of people out cheering us all on. Team Ingram was in full force around mile 3 and again at the end - pure awesomeness seeing the sea of green! There were bands and groups performing throughout the course. It was a beautiful day and a great run! Running through the St. Jude campus was emotional. Running throughout the course with families holding signs was emotional. Finishing the race and not being able to find my mom (for 40 minutes) who was without a cell phone ( but who is the best cheerleader ever) was also emotional - yet something to laugh about now! This was a great race and one I would do again and again and raise money for again and again. Already thinking of fundraisers for the next year!

Thank you to friends and family who gave generously - I exceeded my goal of $500 with $865. Maybe next year we can reach $1000. Because of your donations - no family EVER has to pay at St. Jude.