Sunday, February 20, 2011

Kickoff to Spring 2011

January 29, 2011 was the first day of my Ultra training season.  I'm on the left, Brian is the Web Captain next to me, Chris Kern is the Fundraising Captain next to Brian and Monique Winkler is one of the Coaches on the right.  This season I'm not only a participant but also a Mentor for 7 East Bay participants and Honoree Captain for 3 honorees on our team. As Mentor, I help guide the participants, answer questions, organize carpools and socials, and help with fundraising.  I also help report any concerns to the team manager or coaches.  As Honoree Captain I keep in touch with our honorees, Laura Warren, Mark Zafra and Justin Estrada, and report back to our team.  Laura Warren has had Hodgkin's twice, had breast cancer and was currently re-diagnosed with breast cancer.  She's is a strong person and always has a smile on her face.  I love Laura!  Justin Estrada was also diagnosed with Hodgkin's, went into remission and was re-diagnosed with Hodgkin's.  He recently underwent a bone marrow transplant from his sister.  We are still waiting to hear the "R" word.  He's doing quite well and having fun socializing with everyone on Team in Training.  Mark Zafra is currently in remission!  He had Hairy Cell Leukemia but has been cancer free for several years now.  He has such a great story and is so inspiring.  I would like to someday see a cure for all cancers.  I've lost a few friends to cancer and I've learned that being on Team in Training has helped me be a better friend and more understanding of those suffering from it.
Laura Warren
Justin Estrada
Mark Zafra

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