Last Sunday, I completed the Nation's Triathlon. Not only was this a huge accomplishment for me physically, but with your help, I raised over $2600 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Leading up to the event, I was so nervous, wondering if I will make a good time, if something will go wrong, if I have prepared enough. This was my very first triathlon and before I started training three months ago, I haven't swam since 6th grade or rode a bike since my bike accident at 19.

 Inevitably, things did go wrong... I slid on the dismount area and fell on my bike and the wheels wouldn't rotate after that. So I carried my bike to the rack and continued. My running shoes were tied too tight and were a struggle to slip on, but I pushed through. My stomach got all cramped up during the run from all the sugary power bars and gels and Gatorade, but I continued. And even with the things that did go wrong and the things I didn't prepare well enough for, I smiled right through it - and I am proud of how well I did! I swam strong, 36th out of 176 in my age group. I rode well and ran well too....my total time being 3:13:49!

 But even more, I am proud to have helped cancer patients who struggles far surpass anything I have ever faced. Their financial and physical pain ... and the simple hope for another day to live ... it's all something where we as a society come together to help. And I am proud that you, me, and the whole Nation's Triathlon team have helped raise over $2.4 million for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Thank you for being a great part of this journey and helping to bring support to those in need and hopefully a near end to cancer! Thank you again,

 Heather
http://pages.teamintraining.org/nca/nattri09/hskinner