On February 15, 2009 my Dad will complete his first marathon in my place and in his father's memory (complicated I know).  During Keep Austin Beautiful’s biggest event of the year I got the call nobody ever wants to get, and found out that my Grandpa Wilson had been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.  In addition to the overwhelming knowledge that I was going to lose someone in the near future who’d given me so much, I was devastated by the distance between us. 

Grandpa was always proud that the Irish “wander lust” was so strong in his children and grandchildren, but having the Atlantic Ocean and a six hour time difference between us was emotionally draining.

The ability to take three weeks off this spring to spend with my Grandparents, being cared for myself by a large group of generous friends and family, and knowing that when I left England the Campden Home Nursing Trust was there to give my family the support they needed was a huge relief.  

Grandpa passed away in late September at home with family by his bedside and with the dignity he deserved.  While I was unable to attend the memorial or thank the home visit nurses who’d given him such wonderful care in person, I want to be able to show them how much their dedicated care of Grandpa meant to our family. 

When Grandpa passed away I decided I wanted to do everything I could to support the work the Campden Home Nursing Trust does, and started training for the Austin Marathon 2009 to raise more money then I'd be able to donate on my own.  I was up to more than 30 miles per week and 18 miles on my long training runs, but I was over enthusiastic and ended up with a stress fracture in my left heel/ankle.  However, there was laughter through the tears when my father said that with less than a month to train he'd do the marathon in my place.

I might not be able to complete this race, but want to honor not only one but two incredible men by supporting a charity they both believe in.  Just think...it's like getting 3 marathons for the donation to one.  1. training's the hardest part and I was already fit enough to run this one 2. my Dad's going to have a finishers medal in just a couple of weeks & 3. you'd better believe that I'll keep my word and complete a marathon as soon as the doctor says I can start training again

 
Please consider donating in his memory, in the memory of someone you’ve lost to a terminal disease, because you know what a difference an outstanding nurse makes, or just because you want to support my nutty idea to run 26.2 miles. 

 
Any amount is greatly appreciated but here are a few ideas:
-# of miles I’ll run on February 15th, 2009: 26.2
-Grandpa’s age: 88
-# of Miles I run per week: 19 - 37
-# of Training Miles I’ll run between October ’08 and race day: 506  (OK...now I'm feeling a little intimidated, but I know I can do this with your support.)
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For all of my donors using dollars and euros you can make sure you're giving the number of pounds you're comfortable with by using the Universal Currency Calculator: www.xe.com/ucc

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Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure.   It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Campden Area Home Nursing Trust gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thank you for your support.