Dear Family and Friends:

On October 18th, 2009 I will be running in the Newport Marathon to help fight Cystic Fibrosis (CF). CF is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of millions children and adults in the United States and worldwide. A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce an unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections as well as obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

In the recent past, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

I hope you will lend your support and consider sponsoring me or coming out to run the 26.2 miles. Any donation is most welcome, whether large or small. My goal is to raise $1,500. To donate, simply scroll to the bottom of this page and look for the “Click to Donate” icon.

Advances continue to be made in finding a cure, but your help is needed now more than ever to help keep up the momentum of this life-saving research. To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visitwww.cff.org

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those with cystic fibrosis. Thank you for your support and encouragement!!