August update

August 20, 2008
Hello all!

Since I wrote you last things have changed a bit in the running world of Laura. Running is going well. Don't hate me, but I decided to run the half marathon (13.1 miles). I was having nightmares about running 26.2 miles. I think it was a bit irrational to be so stressed out so much but that is okay! I have learned I have limitations. Mostly I didn’t want to let those down who are supporting me financially. Then I realized it isn’t really me you are supporting, but this amazing organization that is battling leukemia and lymphoma. I am really amazed by two major things in this process. I am amazed at how God made the human body and how if you really push yourself, then you can accomplish large hurdles. Though I am running the half, it is still pretty intense training. I am up to running about 5-6 miles per day. (Actually I should be out running right now, but I am choosing the easy route of updating you on my status!) Secondly, I am amazed at how many people are battling a blood cancer or know of a loved one who is battling cancer. I have never been involved with an organization where I am so blown away by the experiences people share with me. This is cause so outside of myself, I am baffled by this ravenous disease. One woman just shared with me how her friend was diagnosed with what she though was a cold, and then found out it was Hodgkin’s, and died 4 days later. Alternately, my cousin told me an amazing story of her best friend’s son who was diagnosed with leukemia but was able to get the proper care and has been in recovery for many years now. I am really amazed by these stories of despair and triumph. It is something I find myself actually proud to be a part of helping to aid. So I am willing to be the vessel if that means a few less people have to suffer! I am grateful I am so fortunate and healthy!
I am encouraged by what financial support can do to for these who are suffering. Research and helping people become informed and correctly diagnosed and medicated so they can go on to live happy fulfilling lives. Thanks to your help and support I am about $800 away from the financial support goal. This still seems like a large amount, but that also means through your care and kindness, I have raised $2100 for cancer research which is pretty amazing. 75% of the funds spent by the Society go directly to fund research and patient services. We had a yard sale this past weekend and raised $250 (which I have been told is a lot for a one day yard sale. Pictures soon to follow). There is still time to donate. In the earlier letter I posted the deadline of August 1, this was the halfway mark. In order to continue, I needed to have 25% of the money fundraised by August (and thank you for making that happen!). I now have until October 10th to get the remainder of the money in. I have included the website again to donate quickly online and receive an automatic tax receipt (all donations are 100% tax deductible). If you should choose to mail in your support please print out the form and mail it to the address below.
This is the website which shows the course I will be running. Feel free to come up to San Francisco and join in the marathon! Either running a few miles with me or cheering along from the sidelines!

http://www.nike.com/nikemarathon/media/pdf/nike_marathon.pdf

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement!
Laura Miller

Laura Miller - TNT Volunteer

2310 Santa Ana, Unit I

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

949-680-7893 cell

To Donate Online: http://pages.teamintraining.org/ocie/nikesf08/lmillerkoy

Federal Tax Deductible ID # 13-5644916

Please make all checks out to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or simply “LLS”