New goal
So I changed my fundraising goal from $6,800 to $10,680. Originally, I was truly worried about whether I would hit the first number, so you can imagine what I am thinking right now! But here’s why I did it. When the donations started pouring in, I was blown away not only by everyone’s generosity, but also by how quickly everyone responded to my request to sponsor me in the Joints In Motion half-marathon fundraiser for The Arthritis Society.
Donations soared past the $5,000 mark within the first week, putting me within easy striking distance of my goal. But with a full 14 weeks before race day, it hit me that I should aim higher. So I did, and now I am at $10,680. Yikes! The donations are still coming in, but not at the rate of the first week.
I am now more inspired than ever to run this race. Yes, seeing the sponsorship total rise helps, but what really makes me suck it up and not complain as much about my achy knees after a long run, are the comments from donors.
From a colleague at the radio station: “My rebuilt left hip knew a little about arthritis.”
From another donor: “We’re with you Paul. Perhaps some of the research could focus on my fingers, hands and toes.”
From a guy I curl against (usually lose to him as well!): ”As someone who has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, I know how important this effort is and I applaud you for doing it.”
How can I not be inspired?
Of course the fact the run is in Barbados is not lost on some donors. I have had offers from people to be my official photographer or trainer, along with some good natured ribbing:
“Good luck on your race in Barbados. That will cure anyone’s arthritis!”
“You better finish the race and not just sit down there drinking mojitos!”
My favourite words of encouragement are from a guy I play croquet with. He also happens to be an incredibly fit swimmer, tennis player and runner. He is older than I am and I would consider myself lucky to be as fit as he is when I am his age: “Have a good run for a worthy cause. Start slow with a steady pace and finish with a smile.”
I will finish with a smile thanks to all of you who have made a donation to help conquer an affliction that I am learning everyday affects more and more people. I am grateful for your support and for the kind words.
Sometimes the simpler the better: “Rock it out, Yo!”
2 Responses to “ New goal ”
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September 13th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
Hiya Cookah, I would normally offer my favourite motivational phrase to someone approaching an enormous challenge, which is; ‘Just Keep Swimming’ by Dory (Nemo). However, realise perhaps not the most useful advice for a runner! Then there’s another favourite; ‘if at first you don’t succeed, give up.’ by Homer Simpson.
Must admit though, I do like your Mojito adviser, keep them on your coaching team for sure. Cheers. Lisa
October 9th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Hey Paul,
Congrats on the run, go for it. I have always wanted to run for Joints in Motion because of a very personal connection to arthritis. My Dad, passed away May 2,2005 of scleroderma.
I am running my very first marathon ,on October 18, 2009, the Toronto Marathon. My Dad would be so happy to see my run my first marathon. I only started running because after he passed away because, I started to eat too much food to sooth the grieving. I had to do something,so I started running. For my marathon I am running for the Canadian Mental Health association, York Region, with whom I have worked for the past 10 years as a case manager.
If someone had said to me 10 years ago that I would be running a marathon, I never would have believed them.
Hearing you on the radio this morning was very inspirational. Keep it up. All the best with your fundraising !!
Sincerely,Lisa Wood