Dear Friends - I am writing to share some perspective and to make a request.
As many of you know, I compete in the sport of Triathlon - a crazy combination of swimming, cycling and running that is often referred to as the “toughest day in sports."
To me - Triathlon is an interesting metaphor for life. A unique mixture of work, fun, pleasure, sacrifice, reward, sharing, pain, euphoria, camaraderie, isolation, dread, exhilaration and every other emotion in between.
I swore I would quit after my first one. Then a friend's baby got sick, so I trained, raced and raised some money in honor of her. Then a friend lost a child, so I did it again. Then my friend and coach was involved in a horrible accident, so I trained and raced and raised a bit more.
Then, life struck again. First my friend, massage therapist and integral part of my Ironman support crew took ill. And more recently, my old pal, Mike Jenkins, has taken ill. Mike has been a work colleague, friend, mentor and role model to me and countless others for decades.
This year, I am swimming, biking and running to honor Mike and thank the good people at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha for taking care of my friend.
Here is my request. First, take an extra moment to send a note, say a prayer or do something in appreciation for someone you love. Second, and only if you are inclined, sponsor me for $70.30 (my half Ironman distance in Utah at 70.3 miles) or $140.60 (my full Ironman in Whistler, B.C. in July is 140.6 miles).
Every inch was, and will be with a smile on my face. My goal is $10,000. I love you, Mike - get well.
Thanks everyone for your support!
Todd
