We marked this anniversary in an amazing way. We joined forces with nine other pedi cancer families through our friends Sandra and Jim and their Sophia's Buddies triathlon team. Truly, Sandra did a perfect job of honoring each of the nine children while at the same time bringing us all together. As a group, 88 of us came together to participate in the Nautica Malibu Triathlon. We had four members of our Team Hans this year. One relay with our neighbor Don swimming, Kevin biking and Elle running. And I did the individual event - all three (half mile swim in the open ocean, 19 mile bike ride along Highway 1 and a 4 mile run.) It was an incredible day! Together we raised over $53,000 for pedi cancer research at CHLA. Thanks everyone for your support!
For me, the swim was difficult and a little uncomfortable. I felt more like I was in a washing machine than I was really racing anyone. The bike was awesome (I was in my wheelhouse on my road bike), and the run was hot and it seemed like everyone was moving just as slowly as I was. All through the race and all through the training building up to it, I just kept thinking - this is nothing. This is nothing compared to what Hans and all the other children with life-threatning illnesses and injuries have to do to survive on a day-in day-out basis.
I am sure that Hans would be proud to be featured on Sandra's pal Debbie Foreman's Lamborghini #Batventador. Debbie is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research and this year she wrapped her car to support Sophia's Buddies!
Meanwhile, back in The Woodlands, Carmen and pals organized another Team Hans pathway pick up on Sunday morning. Thanks to everyone for your support all around. Here is the crew pitching in. We love to feel the love. It's good to do a little good. Thank you all who were such good friends to Hans. As I have said before, Hans' journey was fraught with many challenges, and yet charmed by many miracles.
