Hi everyone!

I have decided to run the Des Moines Marathon this fall (yes, I know I'm a sucker for punishment).  It's really just a great excuse to raise money for a wonderful non-profit group that provides very important services for kids battling cancer right here in Iowa. 

The Heart Connection offers programs that help make life easier, fun, and more normal for these amazing kids and their brothers, sisters, moms and dads.  After all, these kiddos have undergone numerous, often painful tests and treatments and suffer much more than any person should ever have to endure.  They deserve to have some very special activities to look forward to!

One such activity is a week-long camp adventure in Boone, Iowa.  They get to have tons of fun, forget they're sick, and form great friendships with others who understand exactly what they're going through.  There's a camp for kids with cancer and another camp for their siblings because cancer affects the whole family.  Collin and I volunteered with check-in last year and were humbled by all of the kids and their enthusiasm and appreciation!  The following is a quote from one camper who lost her brother to cancer describing the difference between friends from school and friends from camp, “When my brother died, my friends (from school) wanted to cheer me up and make me laugh. My friends (from camp) knew that I just needed to cry, and they cried with me. I didn’t have to tell them that’s what I needed, they just knew.” 

The Heart Connection also supports other programs like "End of Treatment Celebrations" after the last chemotherapy treatment.  The child gets a party with cake, punch, balloons and a gift.

They sponsor fun outings such as trips to Adventureland, Disney on Ice, Sesame Street Live, and sporting events.  They provide toys for the "poke box" which is where the child gets to pick out something comforting or fun after experiencing a lumbar puncture or other painful procedure.

The Heart Connection does so many great things to provide some joy and fun for children and their families who have faced cancer.  I hope you are able to visit their website at www.childrenscancerprograms.org to see all of the great programming they offer. 

Any amount you are able to financially contribute to this cause would be much appreciated!  If you are able to help me reach my fundraising goal, your generous contribution will help send 10 children to camp!  Below are some ideas for meaningful amounts to give but again, any amount is perfect!! 

$8 - Number of years the Des Moines marathon has been running

$21 - Number of years the Heart Connection has helping kids with cancer

$26.2 - Number of miles I'll be running - Yikes!

$46 - Number of children diagnosed with cancer every day

$135 - Number of kids who attend oncology camp each year

$160 - Number of kids who attend sibling camp each year

$300 - Cost to sponsor one very grateful child for a super fun week at camp!

Thank you so very much for visiting my fundraising page!  These kids are truly an inspiration for me and your donation is making at least one incredibly deserving child's day brighter!

With sincere gratitude,

Erin