Once a teammate, Always a teammate.

I had a really hard time deciding what to post this week. I could hype our Date Auction, or talk about what a hit our Mandell Designs necklaces have been. I could highlight the generosity of our donors, or update you on the training miles I've logged (over 300 now!).

But I think instead I'd like to write about spirit, determination, and inspiration.

Three of my teammates have recently learned that they need to take a break from running. Each has listened to their respective tear, fracture, and infection, and will not be running on April 19th.

I know that Amy, Mark, and Helen haven't asked to be the subject of my blog, and they are each mentally working through their own shock, denial, anger, etc. And I would hate for this post to seem like dwelling on their injuries. But - Amanda and I want them to know that from our perspective, you are each very much still a DFMC teammate. We are in awe at your ability to remain positive, and that you want to stay involved. You are an inspiration in your quest to continue raising money for Dana-Farber, and in honor of that, part of the proceeds from our Date Auction will be contributed to Amy, Mark, and Helen's fundraising.

Personally, I will be running the Marathon with the names of people who are inspiring my run written on the inside of my arm. It serves as a reminder that the run is not about me; it has a much bigger purpose and many who will benefit. Amy, Mark, and Helen will join the fighters, survivors, and inspirations on that list.

Finally (and perhaps most importantly), there's the small topic of the DFMC team photo. Don't worry, we've got that figured out. We will mount your likeness on a stick and carry you with us to the photo, where you will forever be included in the 2010 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team. As it should be.

Disclaimer: I stole the picture of Tina Fey from Google; she won't actually be the one holding your faces in the group shot. And I borrowed Helen, Amy, and Mark from Facebook.