July 19th Triathlon at Eagle Creek

Wow....Only 8 days away and I will be participating in a Triathlon with my older sister (Crystal), my younger brother (Josh), and my 12 year old nephew (Jesse). I'm very excited to participate in this event with them. This is definitely a first for my family,to have all of us participating in the same event. Watch out!!!

We have decided to tackle this challenge in teams. We figure we will spread the pain and torture over two people instead of one person. The first team, Dynamic Duo, will consist of my sister and me. That's right. We had to bring her out of retirement for this special event. I plan on doing the swimming and running and she is going to do the bicycling. The second team, Young and Restless, will consist of my littler brother and my 12 year old nephew. We had to ask race officials to make an exemption for him due to being 12 years old. Come race day he will be the youngest and smallest participant. However, he's very confident and cocky like his two uncles so he won't have a problem. He did tell me that he can pedal for days and not to worry about him. Josh plans on doing the swimming and running and Jesse will be bicycling with his mom. I look forward to seeing you looks in better shape after the bike stage. .

People ask me why I'm participating in a Triathlon. You probably notice the picture that I have included. That's a picture of my niece, Chloe. In 2005, my niece, Chloe, was diagnosed with Chiari on her 2 year old birthday. Her symptoms progressed and in March of 2006 she underwent decompression surgery. The surgery is not a cure for Chiari, but to help relieve some of the symptoms. Chloe has had some relief from the surgery, but still has headaches, neck pain, visual disturbances, fatigue, tingling in hands and feet, and seizures.

In an attempt to raise awareness, increase research, and advocate for more support for those who have Chiari, my sister, my brother, and my nephew, and I have committed to participate in this Triathlon

Please visit http://www.chloescourage.blogspot.com/ for details on how to help us in our mission.