ONE MONTH. In 30 days I toe the line at my first marathon at the 43rd Marine Corps Marathon. I’m using the opportunity to raise money for an Army veteran in need through the O’Connell Valor Fund. 25 pledgers have helped me raise $1750 of my $2000.
Although the training miles have piled up, I’m not going to qualify for the Boston Marathon, especially not with the qualifying times changing, but more specifically I’m not that good a runner. I’m hoping to finish in the 4:15:00 – 4:30:00 range — only an hour or so (30%) longer than my BQ time. Supporting this run is not about supporting a runner seeking any glory other that the personal victory of finishing a marathon. This is about doing good, giving back.
The O’Connell Valor Fund has presented me the family this fundraiser will support and they have a devastating and heartbreaking story. Our veteran was medically discharged from the Army, disabled and unable to work, he has been undergoing treatments at the Veterans Administration. Meanwhile, his wife had been supporting the family and his son with special needs had been contributing to the family income.
Earlier this year, his son committed suicide in the family home. If not devastating and traumatic enough in and of itself, his family now stands on the verge of losing everything as his wife has been unable to work as a result. After months of working with local resources, they’re able to move out of their home – away from the trauma and closer to his treatment options.
Our veteran has been vetted through Veterans Count, the philanthropic arm of the Easter Seals Military & Veterans Services, and the O’Connell Valor Fund directs 99% of their funds to Veterans just like this. To learn more about why I’m doing this, I detail it here, but simply put, it’s a labor of love and to give back. The money raised here will help our Veteran move away from the trauma, and move back toward regaining his life.
One of our supporters is running the MCM to raise funds for one of our Veterans. Please read more about his campaign here – a share is as good as a donation: Thank you… https://t.co/4mq0MLqQp6
— O’Connell Valor Fund (@OCValor) July 22, 2018
I would consider it an honor for you to express your support for this effort, no matter how small. I need just 10 people to pledge $1 a mile to reach the goal. 10! I’ve been presented this veteran because I believe I can raise this money. The sad part is that while his story is heartbreaking, there are many many more stories just like his. We need to do better for the men and women who have served our countries and for their families. I know there are 10 people who can help make this happen.
You can make a flat dollar contribution or pledge an amount per mile (26.2!!) by clicking the graphic above or just following this link.
Contributions/Pledges are tax deductible. Thank you for your consideration and support.
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