by Carla Izzard
It was about two years ago that I turned that dreaded age of 40.
Photo of me with my son Jonathan
I was a single mom, working full time and looking for something for me. It was around that time that a friend of mine asked me to participate in a 5K road race. I had NEVER run before, so was a little nervous about taking this on. However, once I crossed that finish line, the feeling of accomplishment, pride, and love of life I felt was overpowering. Exactly two years from the date of that first 5K, I completed my first full marathon. Running has given me life again, and helped inspire me to make a difference. Let me explain.
A few months ago, my friend Amber called to ask me to get involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Rhode Island’s “Woman of the Year” Campaign. My immediate reaction was, “Yes, what can I do to help the Woman of the Year?” She laughed, and said, “Carla, I nominated YOU to be Woman of the Year! (I hope that is OK?)”
My immediate answer was, “YES!” Leukemia is a disease that has affected too many people that I have known throughout my life. When I was a child, one of my dearest friends was a girl named Michelle Hopkins. Michelle was one of those people who could make you laugh with no effort at all. She was such a bright light, and an absolute joy to be around. Her sense of humor and her ability to make YOU feel special is something that was so rare.
Michelle had been diagnosed with Leukemia when we were young. At the age of nine, I couldn’t begin to grasp the extent of what was happening to my friend. I knew that she must have been hurting and in pain, but you would never know it. She never wanted anyone to worry about her.
Michelle lost her battle to leukemia. It was my first experience with death. I think about Michelle all the time, and what a huge impact she had on everyone around her. Losing someone whom I loved and cared for so dearly, I always wished I could have been half the kind of person and friend to her as she was – and still is – to me.
Fast forward to current day. My “Pay it Forward” moment happens now. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Rhode Island Man and Woman of the Year Campaign is a ten (10) week fundraising campaign where male and female nominees raise money to help fight leukemia and lymphoma. All the money raised benefits not only the LLS, but also the Boy and Girl of the Year.
This year our Boy of the Year is Gavin, and our Girl of the Year is Autumn.
Gavin and Autumn are both age six, and were each diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia). Both Autumn and Gavin are currently in remission.
I realized that I could use running, the sport that gave me back my life, as a way to raise money to hopefully give life to those suffering from leukemia and lymphoma. I hope you’ll join me and others at beautiful Colt State Park in Bristol, Rhode Island on Saturday, April 21st, as part of the “Miles for Michelle” Charity road races!
Pick your choice of the 1K, 5K, and 10K distance – there is something for everyone. Can’t be there in person – but want to be there in spirit? Sign up as a virtual runner / walker, pledge your support, and complete the distance in solidarity with us from wherever you are that day! Hope to see you on April 21st – SIGN UP TODAY!