Earlier this week, I received an email from the National Marrow Donor Program stating that I was a match. I can't begin to explain the excitement in my heart when I read the email. I signed up as a donor back in 2007, and here it was... finally my chance to save a life. So eager to find out more, I immediately called to start the process. As we started to go through the medical history portion of the screening, I felt my heart break the second she told me I was disqualified. The Degenerative Discs in my lower back made me ineligible for both procedures. To be perfectly honest, I wanted to cry. Those who know me, know how passionate I am about everything I set out to do, this was no different. I'm not one who likes to be told "no" or that I can't do something, but this was something I couldn't change. The rules are written, and there was no way around it. With disappointment in my heart, I decided to post about it on Facebook and Instagram. Just because I can't donate my marrow, doesn't mean I can't help spread the word to those who can. To my surprise, my efforts didn't go unnoticed. That same day I received a message from a high school friend who said she visited the website and requested a registration kit to be sent to her. That's all it takes, one person to take the first step.
So here I am, thinking "Why can't we all just do a little more?". I know plenty of people in the fitness industry, not to mention the many of you whom I met or reunited with because of my fitness journey. So, I ask you, what's stopping you from doing more? I would like to think it's just because people are unaware of how something so small can change a life in such a tremendous way. Everyday we are willing to spend hours in the gym to better ourselves, why not use it for some good towards someone who needs it? I've personally participated in a few Relay For Life events, a Kidney Walk, a Tour de Cure for Diabetes, and a deadlift contest for the 1736 Family Crisis Center. So why do I feel like I haven't done enough? Because for these warriors, the fight is never really over. With that said, here is my challenge to all of you: Find a local event, and give back. Donate your time, maybe some loose change, or perhaps participate as a fundraising athlete. Take the time to meet with these warriors, listen to their stories, and I guarantee that you will leave there feeling like you need to do more and give more. I'm a firm believer that I was not given my talents to glorify myself, but to use it as a tools for a greater good. So I encourage you all to do the same. A million little steps, still gets you to your destination; the hard part is getting started. Let this be a part of your "fit" journey, I'm honored to make it a part of mine. All the medals, plaques, and new records pale in comparison to a life changed from participating in a charity event. It's bigger than you and I, and as long as I'm strong enough to "pay it forward" I will continue to do so.
For those of you wondering, "Where do I start?" Simply scroll down to the bottom right of this blog page and you can find the links to a few of my favorite charities. So there you have it, all the tools to get you started. READY.... SET.... GO!!!!!
