Family, Friends, and Colleagues,
Fred Williams was 28 years old when he was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). Two years later Fred passed away, leaving behind a wife and two young daughters. AML is the most common type of leukemia and more than 11,900 new cases occur in the United States each year.
Twenty-two years later I married his oldest daughter, Wendy. During the seven years that Wendy and I dated and the 5 years that we have been married, I have come to learn that I am just like her father. Therefore I know that Fred would be as willing a participant as I am to raise $6,000 for The Wellness Community of Central New Jersey located in Bedminster, NJ by running in the Strides for Hope - Big Sur International Marathon on April 27, 2008. This will be the first marathon I have ever participated in and I am running the 26.2 miles as a tribute to Fred Williams.
The Wellness Community is dedicated to helping people affected by cancer by enhancing their health and well-being through participation in professional programs, emotional support, education, and hope. They are a non-profit international support organization that relies strictly on donations to provide free classes such as yoga, nutrition, and support groups for patients, family, and caregivers regardless of the type of cancer.
I suspect that you, a family member, or a friend has suffered from cancer. If I am correct, then I know you understand the torturous mental and physical pain that walks hand in hand with cancer. The Wellness Community can be described as a retreat for all those who suffer from cancer. True, The Wellness Community does not cure cancer, but it does help ease the heartache of those affected by cancer and provides hope and comfort.
On behalf of my family and The Wellness Community, I thank you for helping me to achieve this goal and making a donation that will benefit The Wellness Community Central New Jersey. If you wish to make a donation on-line, please click here. Be sure to put a note in the text box at the end of the form that you are supporting my run in memory of Fred. All donations are tax deductible.
Ryan
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