my reason why…

this is why i run…this is why, this is why, this is why i run…

why do I run… lots of reasons (see graphic below for just a few…) but first and foremost, and the reason I decided to even start this blog…

I am participating in an event that ultimately benefits a charity I hold very close to my heart- The Four Diamonds Fund. When I was a student at Penn State, I participated in an event called Dance Marathon, more commonly known as THON. THON is a year round fundraising event benefiting The Four Diamonds Fund, Conquering Childhood Cancer. Since its inception in 1973, the students of THON have raised more than $78 million and have helped thousands of children and families fight pediatric cancer.

As an alumni, I was lucky enough to have been given the opportunity (TWICE!!) to participate in an event called the Hope Express (formerly known as THON Express). The Hope Express is a 135-mile run that was created with the intention of bridging the gap between the families on the 7th floor at the Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA and the Dancers at the THON. Hope Express is a tribute to the Four Diamonds kids and their families. By running 135 miles through central Pennsylvania, the participants raise awareness (and $$$$$) for The Four Diamonds Fund while honoring the courageous battle against cancer that these families fight every day. Take a quick look at this video and you’ll understand:

this year, I have the opportunity to once again be a part of a team that is raising funds and awareness for this amazing cause.  On October 5th and 6th, 2012, I will be joining a team of 12 runners for the Ragnar Relay Pennsylvania…beginning in Lancaster, PA and ending in the Poconos. While we’ll be running 200 miles rather than 135…the cause remains the same…not only to raise $$$$$ and awareness, but to honor the Four Diamonds kids and their families and how hard they fight against this horrible disease. every. single. day.

How to Donate:

So… should you feel so inclined to support my cause…. please click here and select my name (Janet Berg) from the runners listed in order to donate…

thank you for visiting, thank you for wanting to learn more, thank you for spreading the word…

For the Glory, For the Kids…