Video Uploaded

Finally the video is uploaded so you can take a look. I had to split it into two parts. If you are reading this on Facebook you will have to link to my blog to see it by going to the button that says "View Original Post".

Final Blog? Who knows...but here is what you have been waiting for!

Alrighty - here it is...the final results. If you are reading this on Facebook click on the link above to read the original post or you won't be able to see any of the videos, stats etc. Here are the final run stats from my IPOD. As you will see in my video, my quads seized up at about the 28km mark and my pace dropped. At this point the IPOD got a little out of wack, so it says I ran 45km. The race was only 42km, so trust me, although it felt like it, I didn't run any more than that! :)



The team from Vancouver raised $142,000 in total for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! Of the 182 participants who were in Maui for either the Half or Full Marathon we raised almost $800,000, and a large chunk was from Vancouver! In fact, I was named as one of the top five fundraisers among all 182 participants, thanks to the generosity of so many people! Thank you soooo much.

You can see my race results by clicking this text.

I was 757 of a total of 1057 runners, and I was 327 of 526 men in the race...which although not as good as I would like personally, was amazing overall! In fact, the fact that I finished at all was incredible to me. :)

It has been INCREDIBLY difficult to walk these past few days...it has been four days and I am finally not grimacing when I walk down stairs! But it was all well worth it.

And now for my final video blog...thanks for watching, and thanks for all of your support!!!! Mostly thanks to those who are still fighting the good fight - the money's raised will go to support further research so that the world can be rid of blood cancers.

There was a bit of a glitch, but finally here is the video...



And this video is my final blog...

HOME!!!

OK, so I made it home! I know, I know - you are DYING to hear all about it...and I am dying to tell you...but I will update tomorrow after class. I just wanted to thank everyone for all the e-mails of encouragement! Needless to say - it was AMAZING! I will write more tomorrow...and upload my video!

Hugs, Steven

Three Days and Counting!!!

Mum, me and David four days after he was born!

So...I finally got my personal computer in New York today - thank god! So I am finally able to actually do some updating here properly. But of course it is 9pm, and I am getting picked up to go to the airport at 3am, so I have to get to bed. I just wanted to write something quickly to thank everyone for their support! I leave in a few hours, and the run is on Sunday. Keep an eye out on this blog for my final run times! I am a little nervous - I am so sore at the moment - my first week of classes, and dance class has killed me. My hamstrings and TOES are actually killing from class on TUESDAY. So I am trying to take it easy so I don't kill myself on Sunday. Wish me luck, and Mum grant me the strength to finish. This race is for my friends, family, Derek "Lek" Lekenby, Gregory Austin Whyte, Bob Smidt, Cody Belliveau, and especially Mum...but it's also for everyone who is affected by a cancer. Let's go TEAM!!

THE BIG UPDATE

Alrighty…here it is…what you’ve all been waiting for…an update from me! Yes, I know it’s true that you’ve all been dying to know what’s going on in my life. I’m sure that certainly your child’s school performance, and your annual Mexican Riviera holiday planning really pale in comparison to finding out just what I’ve been up to. Never fear – I’m back! J

So with that build up I will get right into the nitty gritty, and straight to the most important event of the past few months. That’s right – the marathon! As most of you know I have been training to run my first marathon on September 16, in Maui. This is no ordinary marathon, but a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. I began by running to honor the memory of my mother who passed away from Leukemia in 1995. This soon turned into something bigger than myself, and I am now also running to honor the memory of not only my mother, but also that of Derek “Lek” Leckenby, a friends father, and Gregory Austin Whyte, another friends younger brother, who both passed away from blood cancers. I am also running to honor the struggles of two people who are currently battling blood cancers – Cody Belliveau, and Bob Smidt. The day that I run Maui I will be not only wearing white ribbons to honor these individuals but will have them on my mind throughout the race to help me cross that finish line after 42kms (26.2miles).

My initial goal was to raise a total of $6000 for the Society, but thanks to the generosity of friends, family, and even strangers I have raised almost $10,000!!! I held a cabaret fundraiser with performances by myself and four other incredibly talented guests and in that one night alone raised almost $3000. As I write this I am currently sitting at $9300, with days to go before the race, and I know that I will hit $10,000!

I want to thank all those who have donated thus far, or who have sent me words of encouragement…or who have simply read my daily blogs (the link is below if you would like to catch up). The support I have had has been overwhelming, and incredible, and I can’t tell you how many times that I have been sick, or tired, or exhausted, and have still continued training faithfully because I know that I have your support. It’s been amazing! I also know that there are people who have not donated simply because they aren’t able to financially or who may already contribute to other charities. I totally understand, but I still appreciate your words of support. J For those of you who have yet to donate and would like to you still can by going to www.active.com/donate/tntvan/stevenbidwell. Wish me luck!

I can’t believe that it’s already September – the summer has flown by so quickly! For those of you who I haven’t spoken with lately, I have some other news. I have moved to NYC! I have finally found the courage to follow my heart and attend a full time theatre school. It’s been a long time in coming, but it’s the right thing to do. It’s either now or never! So I left Vancouver on the 29th of August, and am now living in Harlem. Yes, Harlem. It’s like living in a Spike Lee movie! I’m living with a girlfriend from my cruise ship days in an incredibly beautiful three bedroom apartment with hardwood floors, and exposed red brick walls. There are a lot of interesting characters in the “hood”…and yes, the neighborhood does feel a tad unsafe, but only a few blocks away are new residences for Columbia Medical students and about 10 blocks south is North Central Park. So I am really in my element at the moment.

The program is at Circle in the Square Theatre school, and it is a two year program. So I will be here for some time. However, I will be back in Vancouver in the summer, and have two jobs waiting for me on my return which is phenomenal. The program is well respected, and well known, and in fact I did their summer program last year so I know it well and am excited to be back. Classes begin on September 10, so in advance of that I have a couple of days in Ottawa visiting family, and I leave to go back to NY tomorrow (Saturday).

So that, my friends, is me in a nutshell. Certainly there is a lot more that I could go into, but I do encourage you to check out my blog to find catch up on everything else. I don’t want to go on more than I already have. If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading! I know that these are impersonal letters, and I do apologize. With all that is going on, it’s the easiest way of catching up so I can stop getting messages from people who are finding out things through the grapevine – this way you can hear it directly from the horses mouth. So…at that…I will go. The next letter that you get should be telling you my time for Maui!

Thanks, be well, Steven

10 DAYS!!!

This is crazy - it's down to the wire - only 10 more days left till Maui and the big race! Life has been SO hectic that it's been really hard to focus mentally on the upcoming race. I've been asked by so many people if I'm getting excited for the race, and it hasn't really set in yet. However, being in Ottawa at the moment (yes, New York on the weekend, Ottawa now, Montreal yesterday...the glam life? not really lol) I have really had a lot of moments of recalling why I am doing this.

I have been running twice now in Ottawa (the heat has been a great training tool) and it's incredible the memories flooding back to me. The first day I ran a 45 minute run that took me first past the house that my mother owned when she passed away 13 years ago and it brought back so many memories. That was a house of love - it was always a home that was welcoming and bright - my mother seemed to know everyone in the neighbourhood, and it was after my mum had a little front porch build (by my dad!) that the neighbours began to do the same, and it really helped to develop a much friendlier neighbourhood. Suddenly everyone was enjoying their front porch rather than the backyard...and it was all begun by mum.

I ran up to my old high school, and actually into the school. I haven't actually stepped foot inside in perhaps 15 years, and it was eerie. It was in fact the first day of school, and although all the students had long gone for the day, it was such a reminder of my own first day of high school. I was so shy, and so incredibly insecure. I was so afraid of "teenagers" and felt so awkward. I remember an older student - he was a punk rocker (yes, this was the 80's) and for whatever reason I remember a leather bracelet that he wore and he had hair spiked up like he was from so English punk band - he looked menacing, but he was so incredibly nice and helped me find a classroom. Wow - so strange to be thinking about all of these things! I went into the gym and had horrible memories of ditching gym class - I was so small and so nonathletic! So ironic now since I am actually doing a marathon and I have had people referring to me as an "athlete". My adult life has been full of athletic endeavours, but imagine that in high school I eventually was allowed to skip gym class all together in exchange for writing three papers on three different sports. That was so long ago!

My life has changed so much. Although I think I still have some of the same insecurities - I'm just better at masking them, and I've had much more life experience. Running Nepean (the part of Ottawa my family lives in) has just been such a strange experience all together - the church that my mother had her funeral in; the church that I sang in the choir; my primary school; my intermediate school. These are all places that I have driven by so many times, but running by them with this marathon so close at hand has been a reminder of why I left Ottawa - I wanted to find myself, try to find my place in the world, but I think even more so to try to let go of memories of my mum. Of course that didn't happen - I just pushed them to the back of my mind. But all this focus on her these past few months - all this training, and hearing stories of others that have been affected - has really helped me to finally find peace. This run is going to be incredible. I have such incredible support from friends, family and even strangers...and equally importantly I have four other heroes who inspire me as well, and who I have not forgotten about - Cody, Bob, Gregory, and Lek. These five people are going to help me through.

Today I ran again today - incredible heat, and I was exhausted (I need sleep and I am fighting a cold from too many weeks of too much to do) but I was again reminded of a promise that I made to myself - that I will cross that finish line no matter what. That the pain that I endure is nothing compared to the pain of chemotherapy. That if I can do this I can do anything that I put my mind to. Four months ago I was intimidated by 10km...today I am EXCITED about running 42km!!! I say bring it on! God - and I have met some incredible people along the way. What a journey!

Well, this journey isn't over yet...and I will end this incredibly long blog with some more positive news. I saw the doctor today that is meant to do the excision on my tongue to remove a displastic area (pre-cancerous). Today he isn't so sure that it isn't something that urgent. He is going to speak with my doctor in Vancouver, but perhaps Christmas will be something to look forward to rather than something to dread because of a surgery. I may not have to do it, and I have fingers crossed that I don't. Again...I have someone watching over me...and I know that she will keep me safe - both in the race and in my overall health. Lord knows I will need it now that I live in Harlem! :)

14 days and counting...

Alrighty - I did it! My first long run on my own. I did the 21km today by myself. It turns out that 21km isn't that far - I ran from my apartment in Harlem and then around Central Park twice. It wasn't that bad - although my legs are suffering for it now! While running I also had the best experience ever - I ran past Lance Armstrong who was running in the opposite direction! I should have turned around and run with him, but I didn't want to be bothersome. But it was pretty inspirational for my run. I spoke with a friend last night who lives here in NY and her mother has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, sarcoma, and another type of cancer. Needless to say, it's pretty devastating, and while running I had her on my mind as well. Cancer is too prevalent today, and we can't begin to just accept it as part of life. It's horrible. On the subway I met a woman from NC who had trained with Team in Training doing a Century Ride (100 mile bike ride) and we struck up a conversation. It was great to hear her stories, and to realize that even though I'm not with my team that I am still being supported by people - even strangers.

15 days to go!

Wow - this move to NY was probably just what I needed for my training. Central Park is very hilly, and so my legs are getting a very different workout. It's also nice to be running in the heat - it will hopefully get me a little more aclimatized for Hawaii...although I think the actual day will likely be very different.

I am currently sitting just below $9300 in donations - I am ALMOST at my goal of $10000! I can't believe that everyone has been so generous. It just goes to show that I have good people in my life!

17 days to go...

Well, I've made it to NY and had my first run here on my own. I live just north of Central Park, and was able to run the north part of the park today - I saw a different part of the park than I have even seen before, and I have to say it was beautiful!! I actually prefer it to the south section actually, even though it is in a less desirable part of town - but it was great. Tough however - there are a lot of hills in the park, and I think it was the kind of training that I needed. So all in all a wonderful experience!

It's strange to have left Vancouver, and I already miss the people that I ran with. The night before I left I wrote a note to thank my teammates - here is a copy of it below. Thanks for reading today! :)

As I prepare for a new chapter in my life in New York City, it is with
sadness that I say goodbye to so many wonderful friends and memories that I
have
made in my journey with Team in Training. I have to say that this began
as a
personal journey to honor my mother who passed away of Leukemia but it
has
become something so much more than that. Training with the Team has
allowed me
to see that I am running to honor so many other people as well -
I am running to
honor those who have passed away from blood cancers and
those currently fighting
blood cancers, but I am also running to support my
team! I have such respect and
admiration for the dedication and hard work
that you have all given to this
cause, and I am humbled to think that I am
among such incredible individuals.
Each time I run with the Team I learn
more and more about each individual, and I
have to thank you for the
inspiration that has given me each km that we run. I
am proud of each and
every one of you - whether you have a personal connection
to blood cancer,
or are just running to be involved in something bigger than
you, I hope that
each and every one of you takes pride in what you have
accomplished.
Together we have raised an incredible amount of money, and
inspiring amount
of awareness, and have conquered what many of us though were
impossible
physical feats. So kudos to you all, thank you for your support, and
good
luck in your runs!

Day 98...21 Days to go!

OK...took a few days off from blogging because of packing, my garage sale, my last day at work, oh, and because my computer is packed, but my roommate has allowed me to log on to do a little update. :)

Ran my longest run to date! Check out the stats below...



It was actually nicely surprising that at about 25km I had lots of energy, my legs were ok, and I was enjoying myself! I bought new shoes on Friday, and re-calibrated my IPOD so the run is far more accurate, and I think the change in footwear really helped. However, at about 31km I just about died. My poor body - my cardio was fine, but my legs began to seize up - it was painful, and my last three km's were dreadful. I basically ran out of steam...but I finished it!

Today was the longest run that I will do before the run on Sept 16 - from here on in we begin to taper off, so next Sunday I will run only 21km and then the following is 15km. I am hoping to train with the team in NYC which will be a great way to meet new people and stay motivated!


Today was also my last run with the team. :( I'm going to miss everyone! I leave on Wednesday for NY, so it's sad to be saying goodbye. This has been such a great experience, and I am so proud of everyone and all that they have accomplished. There are some people that I won't get to see again because they are running in SF not on Maui...but there is a great group who I will see again on Sept 14th! I can't wait! It feels as though we are in the final stretch and I am really looking forward to both the run...and the cocktails in the pool afterwards!!!!

Well this is it for a few days - the next time I post I will be living in NY. See you then!

Day 94

It's becoming more difficult to do my blogs simply because it's such a royal pain without a proper desk! This will be my last blog for a few day because I am going to be packing up my computer, so it won't be as easy to access. A few things however - yesterday was my last run with a few of the team members before I go to NY. They will be running in San Francisco not Maui, so I won't see them again until next summer, or if they come to NY I have fingers crossed! I also e-mailed the Team in Training group in NYC hoping to be able to join them on their runs so I can continue my training with a group before Maui. I haven't heard back, but again, fingers crossed! I am still a bit sore from the run Sunday, and yesterday my calves began to really ache. Time for new shoes again...ugh. But better for my legs! I am meant to be running today, but I am going to postpone until tomorrow so I can get a little nap in and rest up my legs. This may be the last blog for a little while, but I will be back! :) Peace! Steven

Day 91 - 28km

DISTANCE: 27.91km
TIME: 3.07.01
PACE: 6.41/km

Today's Blog - oh, and a bad camera angle...




And how cool is this?! You can see the stats of my last five runs according to my IPOD!!!

Day 89

I've been slack at keeping up my blogging on a daily basis, simply because there hasn't been much to write. I've met my original goal of $6000, and I am simply training. I would love to attain my $10000 goal...and still hope to make it, but training and moving have taken over my life.

So...on the training front. I am meant to run a short run today, but I am taking another day off. My knee hasn't fully recovered so I am taking it easy. Sunday we are running 30km, so I have to be fully rested and ready for that. My knee seems fine, but then little things like stairs irritate it and it flares up, so I have to be careful, which is bothering me. But the big day is coming up so I have to take care! My diet has kind of been demolished today, but that's alright - I've been doing well for the most part.

Two of my teammates had an event last night to raise funds, and while the final tally isn't in just yet they believe that they raised almost $4000 hosting a Bachelor/Bachelorette auction! It was a huge success! I missed the event, but arrived afterwards to show my support and have a glass of wine to toast the evening!

Day 87

Well yesterday wasn't exactly as planned, however I had an amazing run! I went with my friend Morris who I hadn 't seen in some time. He is used to short fast runs of only 20 minutes or so, and I had planned a 45 minute run. He set the pace however, and the 7.5 km run was done in record time - in fact I had my fasted km yesterday AGAIN running 1 km in 5.22. Not too shabby. Today was a planned run with members of the team. I was tired from little sleep and a lot of activity today (ie selling all of my worldly belongings and working) but it was a good run. We did hill training today...and I know I am going to feel it tomorrow!

Great news - one of my team members got a donation of stocks - 5000 shares in some company that resulted in a $7000 donation!!!! Way to go Andrea!!!!

And other news...only one month till I run!!!

Cabaret Moment - Louisa O'Keane

Finally had the chance to edit this for your viewing pleasure - it's Louisa O'Keane singing "The Girl in 14G"

Day 86

For the first time in recent memory I was in bed before 11!! In fact I was in bed by 10:30 - shocking! So here I am, it's before 8am and I am done checking e-mails, and getting my blogging in for the day. Wow - I had forgotten what this was like. I love it!

So I haven't been training in a few days. It's been exactly what I needed. My knee feels absolutely normal today, which is great, because I am going to test it out. My plan is to go to the gym and do an upper body workout, and then go for a LIGHT bike ride to loosen my knees up before I go running this afternoon with a friend. The bike ride will be the test - that's where I injured my knee in the first place, but I will take it slow, and hopefully everything will be all right.

I spoke with one of my teammates, and apparently I missed the 25km on Sunday...and now this Sunday we are jumping up to 30km!!! So I have to really take it easy and make sure that I don't injure myself again so that I can continue on the right path to success!

In other news, I had a great day yesterday. I had a callback for a London Drugs commercial that I think went well, and I have fingers crossed that I book that - it films right before I go to NY and a) it would be great money and b) would be just one more thing to put on my resume. I also did something that I have been thinking about for oh, only 5 years now, and I recorded my voice reel! One of the producers from the station agreed to help me out - he does amazing work, so I can't wait to hear the final product! I am hoping that when I am in NY I will be able to get voice work which will help me out while I am there. Yahoo!

Day 84

Saturday was a bit of a write off - I went to a wedding, and any kind of diet that I was sticking to was destroyed. Then I drank too much (as happens at weddings) and slept in my car (par for the course - I didn't bring a tent like everyone else - it was a country wedding) and woke up this morning both hungover and sore. My knee has been sore all day - I think it was a combination of running Friday when I should have rested it, and also dancing last night. Needless to say, I missed my long run today. It's the first long run that I have missed, and I am really choked about it - I am running in four weeks, and I need the training, however I don't want to further injure myself, so I have to take it easy. I'm not happy about it...but it's what I have to do.

Day 82

DISTANCE: 6.91KM
PACE: 5.38/KM
TIME: 39.02

Well, a bum knee didn't keep me from running today, and brilliantly it actually helped it. It was a glorious run - it was so beautiful today, and I ran a different route than usual right along the ocean with the sun shining down on me. I am going to miss this when I am in NY. That said, I really love running along the West Side Highway there as well. It's just going to be different. Today I ran my personal best for the 1 minute mile according to the voice on my Ipod. Today it was Lance Armstrong. :) And apparently since I have as of today run 260 km using my IPOD! Wow - that's a lot.

I am in the process of going through all of my things and sorting out what I am selling and what I am keeping. It's so freeing! Just knowing that I will be free of so many material objects is really nice, and it's also nice to know that I will be starting off fresh. Changes. They are welcome!

Day 81

Damn damn damn! My knee is still bothering me from yesterday. Today is a rest day, which is great, but tomorrow I am meant to run - I will have to see how it is tomorrow - I don't want to overdo it otherwise Sunday will be impossible.

In the meantime I have a lot to do. I have to pack up my place, and I am starting tonight. Went and bought some good boxes, and am going to begin the process of going through all my little knick knacks an deciding what is going and what is staying. It's going to be interesting, but I can also imagine it will be liberating. Can't wait!

Day 80

Short run, 40 minutes, was all good. Then I got on my bike to come home and my knee popped. It's sore...so hopefully nothing major, but I have to rest it now. Damn. Just another excuse for more ice cream I suppose!

Feeling a little stressed at the moment as the moment to move comes upon me so quickly. I can't believe that I am moving to NYC with such short notice. Now I have to sell my belongings, my car etc and pack up and move. But I'm scared. All of this on top of work, and training. I am feeling as though training is taking a bit of a back seat. I am still running, but with all the other things on my plate I don't feel as though I am focused as much as I would like to be. That said, I am still feeling good, so that's a positive.

You know what? I feel as though I am getting a little dull in these writings. Nothing much new to say...but I suppose just being able to run at all is a good thing. The date is quickly approaching - only five weeks to go!

Day 79

Fastest one minute mile so far! I only know this because some woman's voice came on in my IPOD and told me. I think I was supposed to know who she was because the last time I had a message on my IPOD it was Lance Armstrong. This IPOD Nike + is the COOLEST invention EVER!!! In any event, it proves the point that rest is key. This was the easiest run I have had in ages, and I haven't been running since Sat morning. But it does confuse me a bit - I have been good about diet and restricting alcohol these past few months...then all of a sudden I have a weekend of too much alcohol, horrible fried food, and my run is a breeze. What the?!

Cabaret Press

I just received an e-mail this morning informing me that my cabaret was in the local 24hours newspaper! Click on the picture to get the full image and read up!

Day 78

Well, certainly this has been a busy weekend! It was Pride Weekend in Vancouver, and as a result I worked most of it. Thankfully we did our big run on Saturday rather than Sunday, and now I am back to my regular routine. This of course means that I have an extra day of rest in between runs...which am thankful for. My legs needed the rest given that I have also been on my feet running around the restaurant like a mad man. In any event, today is catch up day and I am getting all the loose ends tied up after my cabaret. Hopefully even get a few more videos up!

Steven Sings Rainbow Connection

I dedicated this song to Gregory Whyte.

Day 76 - 22km

DISTANCE: 22.1km
TIME: 2:25:34
PACE: 6:35/km

We were meant to do a 24km run today, but one of my teammates was having a rough go of it, so we cut it short a bit. I was ok with that. :) I'm exhausted, but it was a good run none-the-less. I love my team - they rock! It's Pride weekend, so we ran a day early so we can watch the parade tomorrow and have a little fun on the weekend. Yippee!

Life is...Slideshow

This is the slideshow that I had playing all night on all the screens around the room. There is no sound, but the sentiments are still the same.

Kerry O'Donovan at the Cabaret

Kerry is an incredible performer, and very talented. He was the musical director of a show I did years ago, and I feel blessed to have had him there that night. California is an original song that he wrote.

Wendy Bollard Performance at the Cabaret

This is Wendy's amazing performance of Choo Choo Ch Boogie. We worked together a few years ago in a workshop of an original musical in Vancouver. I think she has a wonderful voice, and an amazing spirit.

Day 75

Yesterday was the 13th anniversary of the death of my mum. I had a call from my Grandma last night and she sounded very emotional. It's always a difficult day for her. I found that I was alright. I have been honoring my mum so much as of late that the day wasn't much different than any other. I say that because a part of my doing all of this work has been to finally recognize that she is still with me and to accept that I have wonderful memories, and that I am still making them. I miss her a lot, but I know she is still watching. The wonderful things that are happening in my life are because she is making sure that it all works out.

Day 74

Nothing to report on the training side, but a lot to report on the fundraising side! I just got a report that family had sent money directly to the society and so I have now just edged above $8400 in donations! Thanks again to everyone.

Must sleep...very important.

Day 73

Kerry O'Donovan, Myself and Peter Jorgensen at the Cabaret! More photos can be found at: www.urbanmixer.com

Well, I ran yesterday and today, and my legs are pretty exhausted. But it's nice to be running and not having to worry too much about making my minimum. The $10000 will be a bonus, but I'm just happy to know that I am now officially going to Maui regardless of what happens!

Yesterdays Run:
DISTANCE: 5.06km
TIME: 30.08 min
PACE: 5.30/km

Todays Run:
DISTANCE: 6.79 km
TIME: 37.31 min
PACE: 5.31/km

So on my short runs I am averaging the same pace - I think my long runs are averaging about 6.30/km, which isn't bad at all.

I've had a lot of great feedback about the cabaret - it was such a wonderful evening! I won't have time this week to do anything with the video, but next week I will have video up here to show everyone. I hope also to get a few pictures as well!

Fundraiser update!

It's Tuesday morning, and I expected to sleep in after all the work that I have done the past few weeks, but I just couldn't. I was too excited!! I've been busy sending out thanks to everyone, and busy tallying up my donations...and I woke to another $500 donation from Nexen Inc!!! I keep waiting to find out it's a mistake or something - they have donated a total of $1000 in corporate donations!! This brings my total raised thus far to $8197! Far beyond the $6000 I had envisioned! So...I have reset my sights to $10000! I still have about 6 weeks of fundraising to do, so I hope to be able to get there. Thanks again to everyone involved!

Day 72 - fundraiser!

Wow - it's 1:47am, I am beat, but what a great night!!!! After wall was said and done, and after a wonderful show of support from the local community, other team members, my friends, and support from the Majestic and a huge donation from an old friend, I made $2910!!!!! So this brings my total donations to $7720!!!!! (this will be reflected in a couple of days on my donation page) I've surpassed my goal, and I haven't finished yet! Thanks to everyone who showed such amazing support, and to my friends who helped out in so many ways. I hope to get some video up here soon! have to go to bed now. What a night!

Day 71 - HALF MARATHON...again

DISTANCE: 21.01 km
TIME: 2:12:14
PACE: 6:17/km

So now I know what it feels like to be an old man. My knees are aching! Having said that, I feel better than I did last weekend that's for sure, and I am glad for it. It was a better route today than last week - there was a slow incline for a few km at the beginning of the run, and then a deadly decline that I had to walk because it was torture on my knees, but nothing that a little ibuprofen won't help. :) I think today was made easier by the fact that I was a) really hydrated from yesterday, b) I ate a lot of pasta last night to give me energy for the run, and c) I had Propel water with me to give me back some glucose that I would need. I certainly needed it.

I had an e-mail from a friend who does triathalons, and he is a little concerned that I am not doing enough training in the week. I looked up a few other training schedules aside from the one given to us by the Society, and while I could probably do a few more km's on my short runs, I think I am on the right path. After all...my goal is to cross the finish line, not win! Although it would be nice to do it in a respectable time, that isn't my aim. But thanks for getting me to think about it Sony! :)

JILL SULLIVAN 1944-1995

(Taken from the book "Dare to Dream: A Celebration of Canadian Women" by Michelle Valberg)

As a graduate of the school of nursing in Kamloops, BC until her death 30 years later in Ottawa, Ontario, Jill looked for ways to make a difference. She strove to better the quality of life for her patients, from hospital ward to Ontario's Victorian Order of Nurses, from oncology/palliative care to care of persons with AIDS.

In her final years, Jill taught palliative care to nursing students at Algonquin College in Ottawa, focusing on what patients and caregivers needed to know to be more effective partners in caring. She also taught caregivers how to cope with the toll caring for a dying patient would inevitably take on their lives.

Jill's biggest challenge came with her first AIDS patient, which occurred at a time when AIDS filled everyone with unanswerable fears. Refusing to turn a blind eye to the issues, Jill educated herself about AIDS by attending courses, lectures, and talking to experts, then sharing what she had learned.

Jill developed the first AIDS awareness program for nursing students and lectured at health conferences, nationally and internationally. A highly successful and popular educator and public speaker, in 1994 she spent four months teaching and lecturing on AIDS awareness in India. After returning to Canada, an offer to establish and AIDS awareness program in and for India followed. A few months later she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Jill's personal courage in her fight against leukemia extended to her teaching; students were allowed to ask how it felt to be dying. She produced a moving, rich video in which she compared her nursing knowledge with that gained in her battle as an oncology patient. Shortly before her death in August of 1995, Jill received the VON's silver cross for excellence in clinical practice.

Jill dreamt about making a difference. In her all too short life, she instigated change, mitigated pain and grief for families of dying patients, and nursed with compassion and a deep belief in people. In the final analysis, however, above all the acclaim, her two greatest rewards came from being simply 'Mum' and 'Nurse'.

John Sullivan (Husband)

Day 70 - rest day

Today is a rest day in more ways than one. I woke up and I have lost my voice. So I have found someone to replace me at work, and I am taking it easy today. I will go to the gym (I've accepted that it's only once a week at least until the cabaret is done) and I will get to bed really early. Tomorrow is another big run - 21km, so I need to be well rested, and well hydrated, and of course well fed today so that I have the energy. I think that's why I felt so nauseated last week - I hadn't eaten much on the Saturday before the big run, so I need to be sure that I am in top form for tomorrow.

Day 69

It was meant to be a run day, but there just wasn't enough time in the day to get everything in - I worked a very long day, and had to get rehearsal for the cabaret in. I also managed to pick up the last of the prizes, which was a relief. Rehearsal was stressful - I feel as though I have spent so much time on the planning and preparation that I haven't had time to focus on the music, which is what people are coming to see. I wish I was as confident in my musical ability as those people on American Idol who are HORRIBLE!!! But as stressed out as I was about the whole thing I also had a realization - I am doing this for an important cause, and the fact that I am doing it at all is really what I should be focusing on. I had to remind myself that this cabaret is not about me. It's about the cause. And I also had to remind myself that I am doing this for Bob and for Cody who are still fighting this disease. I can't live in the past thinking about mum and what I wish I had done. This is what I am doing now, and I can only live in the present. That's all I can do. One day at a time. One step at a time.

Day 68 - rest day

The title says rest day, so how come I don't feel very rested?! :) There is such a huge buildup to the cabaret at the moment, and really what I need to do is be resting so that my voice is in shape for Monday night. Just like my body for the marathon, my voice is a muscle that needs to be exercised and rested as well, and so far it's been taking a bit of a beating. Napping this afternoon will help out both I hope.

Today I booked my flight to Maui!!! A few changes to my life have meant that I booked my own flight to Maui rather than flying with the team because...I will be in NYC going to school!! I have been accepted to attend theatre school in NY, and classes begin the week before the marathon, so I will be flying on my own and meeting the team. Ironically the flight costs exactly the same as if I was flying from Vancouver to Maui, which is a relief. Also makes me realize that we must pay a lot more in flight taxes, but that is another blog altogether.

There is some concern about my tongue and what the progress is on that. Well, with training happening, I can't afford to take time off to do the surgery, and apparently that is alright with the doctor. So now we are working on finding a date over the Christmas holidays that will work. Ah. So I am really looking forward to the holidays.

Day 67 - short run

DISTANCE: 5.11km
PACE: 5.53/km
TIME: 30:06

It's been a hectic day of more planning, and other such things. I had to go and pick up the keyboard and amp today - i have no idea how any of this works...I just sing, so thank goodness there is a tech person! Then I did a quick run, and felt pretty good about it. My short runs have become very "normal" to me, so there wasn't anything too exciting about it. However working afterwards I felt it in my legs that's for sure! Tonight I ran into to someone I hadn't seen in ages, and he commented that I was looking fit to I suppose in addition to feeling great about what I am doing, I am looking better as well! BONUS! :)

Day 66 - rest day

Well, I was in bed at 9:30 last night, and I really did need it. I really felt ill yesterday. I thought perhaps my sugar level was too low so I ate a huge desert just to help my body repair itself, and a big salad. I think I need to start carbo loading on Saturday nights so that I have energy on Sunday's.

Today is a very well deserved rest day. I have already been up for ages however and met with John who is my accompanist for the cabaret. We went over music again, and I am feeling much better about everything. It's all coming together.

My brother called last night and he is in town tonight for one night only, so I am looking forward to seeing him!

Day 65 - HALF MARATHON!!!

DISTANCE: 21.94 km
TIME: 2:22:55
PACE: 6:30/km

I...AM...IN...PAIN! :) Today was the single longest run of my journey! And to help me celebrate Lance Armstrong came on my IPOD after I ran and spoke to me (which scared the crap out of me!) to congratulate me. I wasn't expecting that. Ah those people at Nike and IPOD are clever aren't they? In any event, it was the slowest pace that I have ever done, and one of the most difficult runs as well, but I finished and that truly was the goal today. My knees are sore, my legs are tired, and the rain isn't helping so I am about to curl up on the couch and watch a movie and relax. But I'm so proud of myself for doing it! The scary part of all this is that I am running a FULL marathon - so double what I did today! Yes, I am a little nuts, but the benefits are outstanding. Not only am I raising money for an amazing cause and honoring some amazing people, but I am getting a nice butt out of the deal too! (It's an ongoing joke with some of the members of the team) OK - I am going to sit on the couch.

Later that day...

I have never been so exhausted in my whole life. WOW! I am off to be and it's 9:30.

Day 64 - rest day

OK, so the best part about my rest days are that I get to rest. Well, sort of. Again, have spent the better part of the day dealing with things for the cabaret, but am feeling as though things are coming together now and I have less to stress about. That's a GREAT feeling! Got some great ideas from the fundraiser that I attended last night as well.

I am just getting ready to prep my song work, and then I am off to the gym. It'll be the first time all week. I've not given it much thought really, but I don't feel the least bit guilty about it. :) I've eaten healthy all day today as well as part of this little cleanse. Although I work tonight at the restaurant and I know I will be tempted by the sweets!!!

Day 63 - 30 min run

Please God make the rain stop!!! It has been raining all week! I'm talking about torrential downpours. It's ridiculous. Having said that, it was nice to have a short break in the rain to go running in - the rain only began to come down again for the last five minutes, which was a nice cool off for me. I started a "cleanse" today, and have been feeling quite "light" which is nice. No sugar and no wheat for 21 days. We will see how it goes. It's all related to trying to reduce yeasts in my body to hopefully make some kind of changes in my tongue. But also I think it may help with my overall health and with my energy for running. Today's run was easy, and very quick. A nice feeling! I think that taking a little bit of a break this week is what was needed.

Day 62 - rest day

The weather cooperated, and I was finally able to pound the pavement and get all the posters for the cabaret put up today. Now there are only small details to finish, and music to learn to prep for the cabaret. It's going to be exciting! I went and saw Wendy Bollard perform last night and she was incredible, so I am thrilled that I asked her to be a part of this. It's all coming together!

Day 61 - 30 min run

Day 59 - rest day

This is a picture of my mum and I in 1974 when I was the ring bearer for a wedding of family friends.

I have to stop referring to these days as rest days. I never rest!!! It was another action packed day with little time to stop at all! I found some more music that I want to add to my cabaret, and I think it's the most perfect song EVER. So I am pretty happy with that. I am really looking forward to the cabaret, but I have to admit that I am also looking forward to it being overwith as well for two reasons. The first is that I will actually have time to sit, which will in itself be a nice treat, but also because when it's all over and done with I am sure that I will have reached my goal of $6000. In fact, I have high hopes that it will help me reach $7000! If indeed it does that, then I can actually spend August focusing on training, and focusing in really eating healthy and of course looking for a job. But for now the next two weeks are key to the success of my efforts.

Speaking of my efforts, today was the day I recommitted to the marathon and my fundraising efforts. It's the day that I finally signed forms for the Society indicating that I will achieve my goals, and the goals set out by the Society that will allow me to continue to be a part of this amazing team. It's exciting to think that I will be! Yesterday when I was running and I was in such pain the thing that kept going through my mind was that by completing this I will also give myself permission to know that I can do ANYTHING that I set my mind on. (this is a difficult thing to think of as I am so weak minded when it comes to sugar!!!) It's going to be amazing!

Day 57 - 15 km run

It was a tough weekend - I was in Kamloops for my Great Uncle's funeral, and it was difficult to see my family going through such a hard time. He was a great man, and my Aunt Toots is a wonderful woman - they had been together for over 61 years so this is going to be a difficult time for her. I was honored to be there, and to have been asked to be a pallbearer for him.

It was a four hour drive home, so I arrived home, unpacked, said hello briefly to my roommate who has just arrived home from Cuba, and headed out for the run that I would have done with the team if I had been here in the morning. It was VERY difficult to do on my own. I was meant to have done 18km, but a couple of things kept me from being able to. The first was the fact that I had to work, so I just couldn't do another 3km (I was late to work as it was) and the other was the pain. I didn't have time to really stretch out properly, and as a result I had to deal with a lot of pain. It was mentally very difficult to do without the support of other runners with me, and physically I was absolutely drained and kept praying to the Universe to help me make it through to the end. I managed to finish, but then had to work at the restaurant and was on my feet the whole night. Needless to say, I am tired, but at least I made it out. I didn't think I would be able to.

Day 55 - 40 minute run day

I am just packing for a trip to Kamloops for my uncle's funeral. I won't be bringing my computer with me for the weekend, but I will be running never-the-less. I am just about to go for my run this morning before it gets too hot, and then I will be running 18km on my own on Sunday. So I will have to do a large update on Monday. Have a great weekend!

Day 54 - rest day

Yes, a rest day today. :) Not very restful to be honest as I worked all night at the restaurant for the grand opening, but never-the-less I was able to soak in a little sun today. I also biked around the city a lot, and I think that helped my legs quite a bit. Only unfortunate thing is that I actually burnt the bottoms of my feet simply walking on hot cement around the pool, and now have to contend with absolutely horrible blisters that make walking VERY difficult. Thankfully it's not a running day, because I wouldn't be able to do it. I spent the majority of my time at work behind the bar so I didn't have a lot of walking that I needed to do.

I failed to mention much about my run yesterday, and wanted to share. I had the small group that I ran with read one of the stories on my blog yesterday before we ran. I think it helped us to focus on our run...and certainly remind people why we run. It was a difficult training day because we did speed training - a slow jog to a lagoon that was 1km around, and then three different full out runs around the lagoon with 2 minutes rest between each before we jogged home. It was really difficult, but it was great because I am really beginning to see that my fitness level is increasing. It doesn't seem unnatural to be doing this much running - it's becoming habit.

Day 53 - hot run

OMG. It got hot suddenly. I'm sweating. I don't feel too great. We focused on speed today. Whoa. Mistake. :) But glad that I did it!

News Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Steven Bidwell
604.928.8564
stevenbidwell@yahoo.com
www.stevenbidwell.com

LIFE IS A CABARET… BENEFITING THE LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

Vancouver, BC, July 11 — Life is a cabaret for Vancouver resident Steven Bidwell, who will host and perform with local musical theatre and jazz talents in a musical showcase to raise proceeds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Steven is committed to raising at least $6000 to help in the Society’s mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for patients and their families battling leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma.

Joining Steven on July 30 at the Majestic Lounge, 1138 Davie St. at 8 p.m. include: Peter Jorgensen (multi-Jessie Nominee); Louisa O’Keane (currently featured in Grease at TUTS), Kerry O’Donovan (current West End Idol); Wendy Bollard (Vancouver International Jazz Festival); Amanda Lince and John Mews (accompanists).

“This is going to be a dynamic night of entertainment featuring music that people of all ages will enjoy,” says Steven Bidwell. “My mother lost the battle with leukemia in 1995 and one hundred per cent of the proceeds from this event will be donated to help find a cure. I am committed to this cause to honour my mum, as well as those who are still fighting the disease.”

Over $3000 in prizes will be raffled/auctioned off during the evening. Prizes have been donated by New Balance, BMO, Tyler Hoffman with Sunlife Financial, Rogers Chocolates, Blenz, Fitness World, Fast Frames, Westcoast Hot Yoga, Rockport Shoes, Safeway, Marble Slab Creamery, English Bay Eyecare, Delilahs, London Drugs, Little Sisters, Yaletown Hot Yoga, Biz Books, Carousel Theatre, Red Door Pan Asian Grill, Fast Frames Ltd., Marquis Wine Cellars, autographed copies of the first season of "Dante's Cove" signed by Charlie David and an autographed copy of Michael Buble’s latest CD!

Steven is so determined in his support for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society that he is also training to run his first marathon in September, as part of the Society’s Team In Training (TNT) program. Since 1998, TNT has trained over 35,000 volunteers annually to compete in a marathon (26.2 miles), half-marathon (13.1 miles), cycle century rides (100 miles), in-line skates (38, 52 or 87 miles), or Olympic distance triathlon.

ABOUT THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY:
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, headquartered in White Plains, NY, is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The Society’s mission: cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the Society has invested more than $360 million in research specifically targeting leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Last year alone, the Society made more than 812,000 contacts with patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals through services provided at its home office and by its 63 chapters nationwide.

Day 52 - 30 min run

And...I am sweating like mad now. It's the warmest day that we have had this summer (although it's not really that hot - just the warmest day that we've had) and it's going to just get hotter! Good for prepariing for the Hawaiian heat. My leg was giving me troubles today, but I ran through it and it feels pretty good.

I will be picking up the posters that I had made for the Cabaret tomorrow - I can't wait! Then comes the task of putting them all up. You know, I just don't know how to do small events - it's always got to be a big production! Problem is that I am a one man show here! Ah well, it'll all be worth it in the end. I will be sending out press releases tomorrow. I had planned on sending them out today, but it's almost 6 and I still have to go to work!

BIG NEWS: I got confirmation from Michael Buble's management company that they will be sending me a couple of autographed CD's for me to raffle off! YAHOO!!

Day 51 - rest day, and remembering Uncle Tom

Wow - today is a rest day, which is exactly what I've been doing - my body is exhausted from yesterdays adventures. There is no point talking about the training today. Today I want to talk about my Great-Uncle Tom. I just had a phone call about a half an hour ago to let me know that he had passed away. He had his colon removed recently, and then had to go in for surgery again because he was having complications. He was a great ole guy. He was the quietest man I knew - partially because he wore a hearing aid, but also because Aunt Toots does all the talking. They were the perfect little couple! She is bubbly and full of life, and he was down to earth and sensible. I remember the last time we saw each other at our family reunion they told me the story of how when they first married he told her that he would furnish the first place, and from then on in if she wanted to make changes it was up to her. It was so perfect! :) They had separate accounts, and each did what they wanted so there were never any fiscal fights. It was a great lesson I learned.

I have been asked to be a pall bearer at his service on Saturday. It will be a military funeral, and I am honestly so scared. I want to represent this man well, and because I am so short I am so worried about carrying my weight. I'm sure it will be fine, but I am really nervous. But more so I am nervous about Aunt Toots. She has all sorts of family there, but they were like bread and butter. I hope she's ok, and I can't wait to give her a long hug.

Gregory Austin Whyte

I have been blessed to be able to run to honor not only my mum, but others who are currently battling blood cancers, and those who have lost that battle. My friend Meghan was one of the first people to donate to my cause. She lost her brother when she was younger, and so I will be running in his memory as well. He sounds like he was a special little guy.

Gregory Austin Whyte was a special little soul. He was eight years old when he died of leukemia. He was a little brother to Alec and Chris, and the big brother to Megan, who saw Greg as the superhero of the world. Gregory always struck people with his Buddha-like qualities. He was unbelievably patient and aware. He cared more for others than he did for himself. At Disneyland, he punched the Big Bad Wolf for terrorizing the Three Little Pigs. He would beg his mother to let his little sister grab the scissors she wanted, just so she would stop crying--because he simply could not bear to hear her cry. He laughed a lot and had a giggly sense of humor. He would do favors for his brothers whenever asked. He had an amiable personality, even when sick. Gregory loved baseball. He even played some baseball on the day he took his final trip to the hospital. On the way to the hospital, Gregory calmly told his father that he was dying. His dad was shocked and upset. Aware that this was news his father couldn't bear, Greg then said, "Oh, I mean, it's so hot today, I'm dying." He was very present and clear-minded when he died, and each of his siblings and parents still feels a deep emptiness without him. They are sure Gregory finds a way to do great things for his loved ones still here.

DAY 50!!!! 15km run

This is my mum on her wedding day. Last night I realized that I am now only 15 years younger than she was when she died. That puts a lot into perspective.
________________________

Wow - day 50!! I can't believe it! And what more appropriate way to celebrate than by running some more! It was a relatively easy run today, but I am worried that I have injured my t-band. During our 1 minute walks (we run 10 minutes then walk 1 minute) I'm fine but then when I start again I have a pain in my hip flexor that runs down my leg a bit. It only lasts a few steps but it's enough to be a little concerned. One of my running partners is a physiotherapist, so she and I did a few exercises that I will continue to work. The last thing I need is an injury, so I will have to monitor it. I am about to take a warm bath and I have had some ibuprofen to make sure that any swelling goes down, so I should be ok. Fingers crossed!

Day 49 - gym

It's been a few days since I last went to the gym, but I needed it today. Enough said. :)

I met with Amanda today - she will be the accompanist at the Cabaret. She is a wonderful woman - she has an amazing energy and warmth, and I am thrilled that she will be a part of this! She was full of wisdom and great suggestions that I will be using as part of the evening. I really can't wait! I also spent some time today going over my music, which truthfully has taken a backseat to getting all my corporate sponsorships in line, so it's time to buckle down or there won't be a show! All in all I'm just glad that it clouded over today so I didn't feel such a need to be out in the sun. Need focus!

I had an interesting night at the restaurant last night. I have worn my purple bracelet since I began this journey (it symbolizes my involvement with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society) yet I think up until last night only one person had asked me about it. Last night was great because I was asked by about 5 different people, and I was able to explain what I was involved with, and again, their supportive words meant a lot. Thanks to the universe for bringing such great people into my life!

Bob Smidt

While I began my journey running to honor my mum who passed away from leukemia I have come to realize that there are others who are still battling this awful disease and so while I am running to honor the lives of some no longer with us who have had blood cancers, I am also running to honor the fighting spirit of those who need our help most. Bob Smidt is one of those who I am running for.

"Born February 12, 1965. 42 years old. Contracted cancer (AML Leukemia ) in December of 2002. Still having rejection problems and many other health problems resulting from his transplant and still not back at work. Living in Tantallon, Saskatchewan. Surveyor by profession and works for the Potash Company of Saskatchewan. He loves sports, dirt biking, snowmobiling, played provincial hockey. Is crazy about sport fishing and fly tying. A nature preservation buff, almost a 'tree hugger' :) Has many other varied interests. We hope that he will have a LONG life."
Carl Smidt (Bob's Dad)

Day 48 - 30 min run

Wow - what a beautiful city we live in and what a great way to get to know it differently by running through it. Truly it's amazing. Today was a good run, but my legs were like jello afterwards. I'm glad that I have a day of rest tomorrow. Again, need to continue to get to the gym to strengthen my core and upper body because I find my abs really start to hurt.

Cabaret

Well the flyer is almost done...so here it is! (I just need to have an adjustment made on the colours) You can also sent people to www.stevenbidwell.com to see it in full size.

Day 47 - rest day

Well, it was meant to be a rest day...and it was in a round about kind of way. I didn't do any exercise per se, however I was asked to work at the restaurant tonight and I agreed to do it. I thought it especially important given that I resigned from my day job today. After all the inspirational work that I have put into this marathon and the fundraising, I realized that I was most happy doing that. I wasn't enjoying my day job, and came to the conclusion that in the end the important thing in my life is to be happy. I have never quit a job without having another one to go to right away, but for some reason I'm really not that worried about it. I know that something wonderful is going to come as a result, and something that will really use my talents. Ironically I went to work and may have been offered a job soliciting local businesses for prizes to use in a charitable bingo that happens weekly. It certainly isn't a lot of money, but it's something and it makes me realize that things happen for a reason. So I look back on my year, and I look back on my life, and everything that I have ever done has been as a result of being brave enough to venture out into something different. I have to accept that my path in life is different than others, and that I choose where I am, and what I am. That's true of the marathon and my commitment to raising more money than I ever dreamed possible. It's all coming to fruition because I decided that it would. Make a decision, stick with it - great things happen!

Day 46 - 40 minute run

I almost went to bed without writing in my blog tonight because it's just been such a hectic day, but as was sitting here surfing the net sucking on a medicated lozenge for my tongue I remembered!

The runs this week have been really difficult, and I foresee them becoming more difficult as our Sunday runs become longer and longer. My body is adjusting, and I am realizing that I need to add more cross training in - dance class, biking, swimming. Just something to help my body gain strength in other ways. It's a good plan...let's see what I can fit in.

I spent the majority of the day working on the cabaret - finalizing prizes, and getting a few web things done. I also sorted out music and am now in the process of beginning to "work" the music so that I'm not just singing, but actually performing. I need to do more of this, but getting all the details sorted out has taken me a while. However, in great news I ran into Michael Buble today (yes, THE Michael Buble) and long story short, I approached him about helping me out in some way. He took my card and said that he would arrange for me to get a couple of signed copies of his CD that I could raffle off! When they are actually in my hands then I will be THRILLED! He was very gracious either way - given that I'm sure he gets a million such requests. But it was so cool either way!

Where the money goes...(from the LLS Website)

The Society is committed to curing leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, and helping patients and their families. The support you provide is invested wisely.

In 2006, the Society invested $61.6 million to support more than 480 researchers and projects in 15 countries on five continents. The Society also provides financial assistance to patients; sponsors scientific conferences around the country; produces educational materials and videos; and runs dozens of Family Support Groups nationwide. Because we receive no federal funding, we depend on you for continued support of these needed programs.

The above was taken directly from the LLS website. More specifically related to your donations here is how it all boils down:

The society is committed to 75% of all money being raised going directly to their mission, 25% goes to costs - this is the same for any and all of their fundraising. Costs include office, staff pay, marketing etc.. So for their Team in Training fundraiser (the marathon fundraiser) they calculate how much it costs to send me and then multiply the cost by 4, and they get the minimum amount that I must raise. The cost of sending me to Maui is $1250. So the minimum I have to raise in order to be able to go (so that 75% of the total goes towards the mission) is $5000 or I can't go. I have committed to raising $6000 because for every dollar that I raise over the $5000 mark, 100% of that goes directly to their mission. I have also committed to donating $50 a pay to a total of $650 of my own money. This means that when all is said and done, of the $6000 that I am raising, 90% of it goes directly to funding their mission.

Day 45 - short run

Finally after weeks of talking about calibrating my pedometer I actually got on my bike, went to the park to the running track, stretched, turned on my IPOD (it's connected through the IPOD) only to find out that the battery was dead! That not only meant that I couldn't calibrate it, but also that I wasn't able to monitor my run so I have no idea how far I went, how fast I was, nothing. It was a difficult run to be honest. My legs are very tight from the 18km on Sunday, so it was a challenge to say the least. But I managed it. I was feeling very heavy on my feet today - no energy at all, and I think it's likely because I was dehydrated. I need to watch my water consumption.

The cabaret is coming along. The prizing is almost complete, the flyer is almost complete, and the press release will be sent out at the end of the week. Only wrench in my plan is getting a piano for the venue. The Majestic just opened, and they intend on getting a piano, but it's not in just yet. A local music store agreed to waive the rental fee, but I would have to pay delivery charges, and tuning. In total it was an amount just too great to be considered for the type of event that I am doing, so I am back to having to find a piano if I can't work something out. All this admin stuff in creating the evening...and I still have to learn my music! But it will all work itself out. It always does!

Day 44 - rest day

I was planning on going to the gym today, but went hiking instead. It was just what my legs needed to be honest - they are really worn out from the 18km yesterday. As it was also a holiday today I spent the afternoon doing what you should do on a holiday - REST. It was great to spend time soaking up the sun and just letting my body relax. Tonight is being spent working on the Cabaret that is quickly approaching! This week I will be collecting the final corporate prize donations, and sending out press releases. It's going to be a fabulous night. I want it to be an inspriational night, and a lot of fun as well, so I am looking forward to putting the final pieces together.

Day 43 - 18km

So, yes, if you have been reading this faithfully you'll know that I have missed blogging the past couple of days. I was in Seattle for a little "mini-vacation" and made a pact not to be online. It was only two days, but it was trying! However, I'm a better person for it. :) As a result of my little vacation I missed my first day of training, and I have to say that it was mentally very stressful. At the same time however, my body was thankful for a little bit of a break. It was needed I think.

Today was our regular Sunday long run - it was meant to be 15km, but in the end it was about 18km. The longest run to date! 1:48! Not too bad. It was made better by the first good weather since we began this training and of course by the company. The only difference was that the last few km's were incredibly painful. I think as a result of the good weather and a lot of sleep I started out a lot faster than I usually do and as a result forgot about form. I really need to start slow because the form that I begin with is what follows me through the remainder of the run. By the end I was actually in a lot of pain for the first time since this all began. Well...a lot of pain is relative. But certainly my legs, knees, groin and hips were feeling less than spectacular. But I finished!! In the end, that's the goal - to finish!

Once again I have to say that I was able to run the whole thing and I ran it for those who can't. My team-mate Doug, who is currently battling Leukemia, is suffering an injury and wasn't able to run, but he came this morning simply to share his story and inspire us. That shows his dedication. Certainly a little pain is nothing compared to having Leukemia. Thanks for sharing today Doug!

Angry

I'm swaying between being angry and depressed. I just had my appointment with the oral surgeon, and I am definitely going to be having surgery again to remove part of my tongue. I'm angry because I have to do it, I'm scared because I know the pain is horrible (from the last time) and I'm depressed because it feels as though I am helpless. I'm also feeling all of those emotions all in one because he showed me the size of the area that will be taken out, and it may leave me with a slight speech impediment. It may not, but it may also be really bad. He can't say for sure. I'm scared. In my mind I feel like the cabaret may be the last chance I have to sing. It will be the last time I sing before the surgery. It makes the cabaret that much more important to me. But I've told them I can't have it done until after the marathon. So it looks like I will be running in Hawaii and then a few days later I will be hospital, and then out of commission for three weeks. Minimum.

But I have been wondering what I can actually do to make something good come out of this. I have some ideas. But I don't know. I need to sit in this for a while before I decide.

Day 40 - Gym Day

I haven't been to the gym just yet, but I will be going. I was inspired to write this morning because of an e-mail that I got this morning from a friend. I've had a few e-mails that were similar, and I had to address it. All I am doing is running. I am running a lot, and I have had a lot of "Ah-ha" moments of realization as to why I am doing this, and inspiration from many different sources. One of those moments came this morning when I realized that there are people there that are feeling less than important in their lives because they aren't feeling as though they are contributing, or because they feel as though their lives just aren't as "exciting" as my life is. Ah - the grass is always greener! To those people I want to let you know that your life is exciting in so many different ways!! So many of my friends with children feel like their lives are just simple and boring comparatively...and it's not true! Raising children, seeing them grown, watching them learn - that in itself is likely 100 times more rewarding than anything that I could do. Having love in your life is also something that is rewarding and beautiful. Having a wonderful career and goals to achieve is important. My choices are different, but they aren't any better or more important than the life choices by other people. I'm a single man, with no children. I have the time to do this! My life is different, but by no means better. So long as we live our lives to the fullest that we can - that we relish in every moment, and take advantage of every opportunity then we should feel proud of others and their accomplishments, and not feel inadequate because of it. Just LIVE. That's the message today. Get out there and LIVE whether it's going to your kids soccer game, volunteering, or sitting at the beach enjoying yet another summer in your life. LIVE.

Day 39 - Hill Training

Map of the Maui Marathon

Here it is folks...the route that I will be taking on September 16... (click on it to view a larger image)

Day 38 - 30 min

Great picture of mum at the beach! David is in the background. This was taken at Sandbanks Provincial Park where we camped for two weeks every summer for almost 12 years. Great memories.


Sitting here sweaty, I should be doing a video blog to break this page up a bit, but I just don't have much time. Worked all day, then spent almost three hours walking around town soliciting for prizes for my cabaret. Met some great people, and spent too much money in the stores that I went in! Note to self: Leave credit card at home when soliciting! Never-the-less, it was fruitful, and I have a number of businesses that have agreed, and I just need to get in touch with them at the beginning of next week. The run was surprisingly easy today - I think it's because I had ice cream two hours before hand...or my walk loosened my tired legs. They are still stiff from the run on Sunday, so today's run helped to loosen them up. Hopefully it will make tomorrow night that much easier.

Thought to myself while I was running that I wish I could commit to other aspects of my life the same way that I have committed to this run. Then I realized that I can. I just have to do it. Another lesson learned.

Halfway point reached!!!

Yahoo!! Today I checked out my totals, and I am now officially over the halfway point!!! $3250 thanks to a huge $500 corporate matching donation from Nexxen Corporation. Thanks to Brad Kaser who donated the initial $500 knowing that his employer would match 100%! It's so amazing to realize that I am actually going to reach my goal!!!

Day 37 - GYM DAY!!

Well praise the lord! I made it to the gym! It's a rest day from running, and I finally mustered up the energy to go to the gym. Feels good. Feels really good! And sadly, that's all I have to say today! :)

Day 36 - 15km

Whoa - woke up this morning at 7:40am and it was a torrential downpour. Nothing like living in a rainforest climate to make you want to stay in bed. It was so tough finding the motivation and inspiration to get up and go running this morning. The usual inspirational thoughts were continually followed by negative thoughts that ended in my wanting to go back to bed. It certainly didn't help as I ate my cereal that I was looking out on the rain as it seemed to come down harder and harder. I considered going back to bed and running on my own in the afternoon rather than with the team in the morning, but then I looked at the weather forecast and it called for heavy thunderstorms all afternoon, so it was the morning or nothing. Again the thought occured to me that there are people unable to do what I have committed to doing because they are fighting blood cancers. I had to go.

As I drove over the Burrard Street Bridge to Granville Island, one lane of traffic had been closed off for a marathon in progress...and I thought, well, if these poor guys can do it, certainly I can! They had already been running for a couple of hours in this weather. It was definately a smaller group this morning. I wasn't the only one who had a difficult time making it to the run this morning, but I felt good about having made it there. It was cold, I am still getting over my cold, and I worked late last night...but I made it. I ran at a slower pace than normal, but in the end my 15km run was completed in 1:39, and I felt good for having done it. After all it was just rain. I didn't have to endure chemo. I didn't have to suffer pain. And I felt great for having done it at all!!

Cody Belliveau

I am running to honor the memory of some wonderful people who have passed on as a result of blood cancers, but I am also running to honor the courage of one brave boy who is fighting to stick around a little longer! :) His name is Cody, and his aunt was also one of the first people to donate to my run. I asked for some more background on Cody so that my readers would know more about him, and so that I would know more about him. Reading it made me all the more aware of why I am running this. I want to know that kids like Cody can enjoy themselves on ice, and not have to suffer through the horrible treatments that he has had to endure.

"In February 2000 at the age of 7 he was diagnosed with Leukemia (ALL). He was treated at the Montreal Children's hospital for the next 2 1/2 years. He went for treatment on a weekly basis, and throughout the 1st year was required to spend 8-10 times in the hospital for treatment over a period of 3-4 days. Cody responded very well to the treatments, was in remission within the first month, never lost his hair with all the chemo treatments, was able to attend school during this time, and all seemed to go well. In February 2005, it would have been five years that Cody was in remission, and would be considered cured - unfortunately, in December 2004, it came back. It was a shock to all, and very hard to accept. Cody started intense treatments immediately, and was unable to go to school for a complete year, and spent most of his time in the hospital - the treatments this time were very intense, and this time he did lose his hair, he had just started to play hockey, which is what he always wanted to do, he was not able to, once again.

The Leukemia this time had come back in his central nervous system, and because of that it was necessary to do radiation on his head, which was done in July of 2005. After that he had treatments done every two weeks,and was able to attend school, and finally play hockey. Cody just finished his last treatment on Friday, June 15th. He will now be taken off all chemo treatments, and pills, and is required to have a check-up once a month - we pray that it will not come back again, we have a long road ahead of us, as we need to make it to January 2010 for the five year to have past before he is considered cured.....if it comes back again, he will have to undergo a bone marrow transplant, and the older he is the harder it is to survive the transplant. We know that information is coming through the pipeline everyday about better treatments for Leukemia, and we do hope that a cure will soon be found."

Well I'm with you Cody! I hope that the little bit of running I'm doing goes a long way to fighting blood cancers, and to making advances toward a cure.

Day 35 - rest day

It's my rest day today. My cold is doing it's thing, and today while I am stuffed up I am not so miserable. I went out with a couple of friends last night and a girlfriend I hadn't seen in months commented on how much weight I have lost. Ironically, I haven't lost any weight (well, like 3-4 pounds maybe) but again, it's lost muscle. The gym just seems to be going the wayside. Ah well, I hear svlete is in!

Day 34 - 30 min run

The picture today is from 1982 - my brother David and my mum. I think this is just the cutest picture ever! It makes me miss my brother too - he's living in Ottawa, but I don't see or hear from him all that often. Wasn't he a cute kid?! I wonder what happened...kidding! :)


I hadn't intended on running today - I was going to rest, but one of my teammates called and since we had planned on running together after work, I went. I'm still getting over my cold, and we ran in the rain, but afterwards I realized that I felt pretty good physically for doing it, and emotionally for staying comitted to my training. Although I'm sure some people would think that I should BE comitted! I can sleep all day tomorow. I can sleep when I'm dead. :)

Derek "Lek" Lekenby 1943-1994

I am running to honor not only my mother, but also three other individuals who have been touched by blood cancers. I have asked their families to write something about them so that I would know a little more about them, and so that those of you reading my blog would also know a little more than just the names of those people who I dedicating my run to.

Today I am sharing the story of the father of an incredible woman who I met while in the UK for a friends wedding two summers ago. She and I immediately hit it off, and we have kept in touch ever since. She is a bright spirit who lit up the room (or pub!) whenever she entered. We also had the chance to bond over stories of losing one our parents. Abi was also one of the first people to donate to my run, and I am blessed to be running to honor her father's memory.

"Dad was really clever - if you needed a question answering Dad would know the answer! He was good fun and really kind hearted.

Derek 'Lek' Leckenby was born on 14th May 1943 in Leeds, West Yorkshire. He was educated at William Hulme's Grammar School, Manchester, and commenced a civil engineering degree course at Manchester University, before leaving to become a professional musician.

He played guitar for the group Herman's Hermits who played a major part in the British Invasion of Pop music in the states in the 60's. Herman's Hermits scored hits with I'm Into Something Good, Mrs Brown You've got a lovely Daughter, I'm Henry the Eighth, Silhouettes, There's a Kind of Hush, Listen People, No Milk Today.

Although the band split in the early 70's Lek continued to tour with another original member of the band until his untimely death at the age of 51 on June 4th 1994.

Lek was married to his childhood sweetheart Leonie and had 2 daughters Kara and Abigail."