I received a terrific note from a friend this morning….
“As you know our daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 3 and 1/2 years ago at the age 5– The Cohasset Triathlon was “born” that next summer. My life had been turned upside down as I knew it, after her diagnosis–our family was in dire straits—physically and emotionally. When I heard of the Cohasset Triathlon was taking place and that you were spearheading it and what the proceeds would benefit, it was just the “outlet” that my husband and I needed. The training, the release of tension, the sweat, the push of ourselves on our sleep deprived bodies –because it was the ONLY thing that WE as her parents could do — to help her in the long run of Type 1. Neither one of us thought twice about participating. To our surprise–neither did a very close handful or our friends–they hopped on board, raised what they could, took time from their kids and families and trained. All because of our family and the struggles that they saw us face day and night. It was their way of helping in an otherwise helpless situation. So my inspiration comes from the need to find a cure for all the children who get diagnosed daily. For the parents whose children suffer from this incurable disease whether it be physically or emotionally. It is the parents who have newly diagnosed children – where they cant even see straight because they are so overwhelmed inside with grief and “why my child”? and for those adults that are in my life who have type 1–and never let it slow them down, not even for a minute. I dedicate myself to all of these people.
The Cohasset Triathlon has bound a community in one goal–to find a cure. The race has been so successful monetarily and spiritually for many people. Being on this side (as a participant and mother of a type 1 child), I hear lots of feedback about the race, how it was run, how wonderful it is, — all the inspirational stories. Look at Karen and what she endured these last two years and how she and Joe collectively have touched so many lives because of what happened. It is tribute to how quickly the triathlon sells out every year–24 hours practically, that says it all right there. People WANT to be in this race, people need this race and I need them to want this race and do whatever they can do to raise $ to find a cure for Type 1. The Cohasset triathlon has taken on a life of its own–one Iam sure you were not even envisioning would look like this. As has “Sarahs Soldiers Team”—over 50 participants/volunteers–all who want to help. The fundraising party this past saturday the 9th, was spectacular– I couldn’t have imagined that it would be so well received… as I always say: I am humbled from my friends near and far and their friends. What people are willing to do for someone else. THAT is what is truly inspiring–that is why I participate– and for this –all that you do–all that you have done on a volunteer basis–to give us this gift is exceptional.”
