The odds of getting accepted to run in the London Marathon 1 in 247,069
The odds of coming in first place in the London Marathon 1 in 38,000
The odds of being diagnosed with Autism 1 in 68
This year, I have been selected to run for Team Up with Autism Speaks on their elite London Marathon Team. The marathon will take place on April 24, 2016 and I have pledged to raise $10,000 for this great cause. Running to help cure autism is something that I am driven to do and being able to participate in one of the World’s Major Marathons is an awesome bonus!
I am excited to have joined in the fight to help make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans living with autism today. Despite some promising discoveries, the cause of autism is unknown and a cure does not exist. Research is crucial. Team Up with Autism Speaks’ elite marathon team is my chance to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by autism.
Last year, I raised money for the Special Olympics and joined their Boston Marathon team. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. So this year, I decided to do it again… but this time, I’ll be in a different country and on a new team.
Being able to help and support others is something I am incredibly passionate about. In fact, I have turned it into my career. Through my hard work, actions and words I hope to leave my mark on the world. When I look back at my life, I want to be able to say that I gave it my all, that I helped as many people as I could and that I was responsible for changing peoples lives for the better.
I think everyone, at least once in their life, should run on a charity team. There is so much good that can be accomplished.
Running for charity can help us find:
- Satisfaction: There are so many things about running that can be rewarding, but there is something extra special about running and raising money at the same time. The knowledge that you’re helping others while achieving a lifelong goal is just fantastic.
- Motivation: Sometimes we make excuses and bail out on ourselves, but the thought of disappointing a charity would never happen.
- Support: Whichever charity you choose will help you throughout the entire process. Choosing a cause that’s close to your heart, means something incredibly special and is hugely rewarding. You get to do something positive to help and support so many. Plus, you’ll be amazed by the response you get from people along the way. You get to see and experience all the good in the world first hand. It is incredible!
- Team: It’s comforting to know you’re not alone. There are people who will be supporting you throughout the process. People who you can talk to about training, fundraising, etc…. The camaraderie you will feel with your teammates on race day will help ease the stress of the day and allow you to focus on your final goal.
- Travel: It gives you the chance to go visit and explore other areas and new terrain. Sometimes choosing to run an event in a place you have wanted to visit can be the final kick in the butt you need to finally go.
- Inspiration: You can never underestimate the impact that running for charity has on others. You can be the person that inspires others to get out and run and help support a great cause.
- Challenges you: Setting a marathon goal and achieving it is one thing, but doing so while raising money for others is incredibly rewarding and life-changing.
Are you ready to change your life and the lives of others?
Please visit my personal fundraising page to make a donation! http://events.autismspeaks.org/2016London/kerimandell
