A very personal marathon...

THANK YOU for joining me in honoring the memory of my beloved son, Stephen, who died at 19 from a hard fought battle with Leukemia. Stephen was kind, intelligent, compassionate, strong, and moved with an astute wit. A beautiful boy who deserved to live his full life.

Time moves on...the longing for my son remains every day. I miss him beyond words. The hole in my heart is irreparable. I wear his picture across my heart during each marathon. Stephen's presence in every heartbeat...every step.

The picture above is me and Jason crossing the finish line last year! My arm wrapped in his for strength. It's Jason's gentle consistent loving encouragement and belief in me that moves me forward every year. Stephen would be proud of his brother, who lives on with courage, strength and a loving heart.

This annual event honoring my son's life...remembering Stephen... has given my life the purpose needed to live a meaningful life. Stephen would have wanted to be honored in this way - helping another kid, like himself, get to Camp Simcha. A place that was magical for him. Two weeks of happiness, laughter and fun while struggling with the physical and emotional pain of cancer. Stephen loved Camp Simcha and felt much gratitude for all who made it possible.

I will be with Team Lifeline at the Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas 10K this November for the FIFTH year. Jason next to me...equally devoted to honoring his brother's life. It is my life's commitment for as long as I am able.

This is a personal marathon for me. I’m not just running for my own satisfaction, rather for something monumentally important...for a very sick child who has been stricken with cancer. I am running to raise money to provide that child with moments of happiness - 2 weeks at summer camp designed just for them - away from unrelenting devastation that has stopped their life as they knew it.

I am running to honor my son's life.

I've walked the walk and know I must help another innocent child.

I can’t do it alone. I need your help.

Please, push the donate button. Reach into your heart with compassion and be a silent partner in a very sick child's happiness. Place a smile on a face that yearns for one. NO MINIMUM! Every dollar matters. Every dollar is needed.The families pay for nothing.

Let's get as many kids as we can to Camp Simcha!! Let's ROCK past my goal!!!

Join me in honoring the memory of my son Stephen, Jason's brother, your family, and to many, your friend.

With much love and infinite gratitude,

Susan
Stephen's and Jason's mother