Napa Half Marathon July 19th

Hi Everone,
I have not posted for awhile because I have been training to run a half Marathon to
raise money for CCFA. Two years ago I could not get out of bed I thought my life was
over. Like many of you my illness kept me from living the life I wanted to live.In July 2007
I had my colon removed due to crohn's and colitis.I foung this website and for the first time
had people who would answer questions,make suggestions,problem solve,laugh, cry and
offer support to any and all who came along.I want to thank Peggy for making me believe
25 years with a bag is not the end of the world.To Suebear who is always kind and supportive
and summerstorm who makes me laugh and cry. And this amazing community of people
who are there for each other.
You have all given me the courage to run this marathon. So on sunday at 7am just
keep me in your thoughts and prayers and I will have you all in mine when I cross the finish
line. I have met and been inspired by other runners and walkers just like us, so many stories
and so much courage.I am having the time of my life and feel stronger than I ever felt before.
Together 300 hundred norcal runners have raised over two hundred and eighty thousand
dolllars for Crohn's and colitis research and suppot services. I wanted to share this with you
because I want all the newbies to know there is life after surgery and it can be yours.
Lots of Love,Fruitcake

Fruitcake...how WONDERFUL! You are an inspiration
I'm putting my running shoes on and will be running with you...in spirit, of course...

Thanks ladies. Cecilia,I met some one from Ohio at our training on sunday.Could that be your cousin? There are people coming from all over the country for CCFA. We have the biggest group of runners out of 2000. I will let you all know how it goes! I decided to do
this because I was talking to some one who really needs surgery and decided that if they
did there life would be over and I was trying to make her realize that her life would improve and she would really start living again. At first I thought I had lost my mind but
training for this race has given me a whole new outlook.I feel like I am in control for
the first time in many years. you just take it one step at a time.

You're doing a wonderful thing for others... and yourself! That would be so cool if you met my cousin! She's a 25 year-old blonde named Sara.

Good Luck tomorrow! I'm rooting for you!