Guest Blogger

With only eight weeks of training left until Ironman Lake Placid, I wanted to take this opportunity to give you an update on my efforts toward the awareness of Batten Disease, the Care For Celia Fund, and my training progress.

First and foremost, I want to personally thank all of the generous and kind-hearted individuals who have donated approximately $3,000 to the Care For Celia Fund. Many of you have written me letters saying, “Thanks so much for giving all of us a chance to be helpful”. I have to say, I have received an outpouring of love and support for the Betz family. Remember, any size donation you make will help the Betz family continue to make a difference in the quality of life for Celia. Recently, Andy and Jenni told me about adaptive seating they're working on getting for Celia, that will be purchased with money from the Care for Celia Fund, and that will help her sit comfortably and bathe safely. For details on how to make a donation, please visit www.careforcelia.com. My goal is to raise $10,000 by the time I compete on July 26, 2009.

TriLife IRON TEAM 2009, practicing the Lake Placid course

When I decided to train for the Ironman, I wanted to compete for more than just myself; I wanted to compete for Celia and go for the ultimate challenge of helping raise awareness of Batten Disease. I hope you will continue to support my fundraising efforts and encourage me along my training journey to the Ironman.

Mandy