Something Special

Dan, 40 pounds lighter

I'm dedicating today's post to someone special. If you read Jen Harrison's blog you already know about Marathon Dan aka Cubicle Dad.  Dan set some goals for himself, as we all do.  One of his goals is to run the Chicago Marathon.  Lots of us have set marathon goals (Ok, maybe not me), but what makes Dan's goal special is that he weighed over 300 pounds and had a family history of heart disease.  Dan is also a husband to an exceptionally supportive wife and has two beautiful daughters.  Wait, it gets even more inspiring....He has joined with the American Heart Association and is raising money in the fight against heart disease. Dan is not just running for his life, he is running for so many lives, most importantly his daughter's.

Dan's daughter 'K'

Dan's eldest daughter was born with a congenital heart condition that required surgery when she was just 2 days old.  As a mom, I can only imagine the emotional rollercoaster that Dan and his wife were on during those long weeks and months during and after her surgery.  You can read her story here.  One reason Dan's story resonates with me, as some of you might know, I lost my sister to a congenital malformation of the heart.  There is also a history of heart disease on the maternal side of my family.

There are some other special folks that are working to help Dan achieve his goal safely.  Dave Wallach for publishing Dan's story on his blog Pace of Chicago.  Jen Harrison, no stranger around these parts, for paying it forward and coaching Dan free of charge (you rock!). Beth Shutt, his registered dietitian who makes sure he is eating healthy (hmmmm....I like that idea).  Runner's High 'n Tri for sponsoring Dan and hooking him up with some sweet gear!  I'm going out on a limb here, but I've been reading Dan' blog and his wife, Pam gets my vote for most supportive spouse.  We athletes cannot do this job alone.  I, for one, could not pursue my 70.3 aspiration without the support and help of my husband.  Go Pam!!

I would also like to report that at this time Dan has dropped 52 pounds!  To me, that is a herculean effort, combined with the progress his is making in his endurance, he's gonna rock the Chicago Marathon!

 I hope you will take a moment to help Dan by visiting his site and showing some love.  You can also make a donation to the American Heart Association and help him reach his $5,000 goal.  Keep on inspiring us Dan!