A representative of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training® is coming to Sylva. And through her, area residents will have the opportunity to learn more about this, the world's largest endurance sports training program at the Southwestern Community College Health Fair scheduled Oct. 26 at the Jackson County Community Services Building.

Adrienne Boueres, Team in Training campaign coordinator in Asheville, will offer information and answer questions about the program that raises funds to fight blood diseases.

"Team in Training provides training to participate in a full or half marathon run or walk, in a triathlon, or century (100-mile) bike ride," Boueres said. "Since 1988, more than 295,000 volunteer participants have helped raise more than $660 million for the Society through these races."

"We will provide people with all of the coaching, training, and travel opportunities necessary to have a truly life-changing experience. It's an unbeatable offer with great personal rewards," Boueres said. "All TNT participants are involved in a life saving mission: to help find a cure for blood cancers and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Money raised by Western North Carolina participants has an enormous impact in the lives of cancer patients right here in our community.

"Team in Training participants experience the rewards of completing a marathon, half marathon, triathlon or century (100-mile) bicycle ride while helping to accelerate cures for blood cancers that continue to take the lives of thousands of people every year.

"If you are you ready to get into the best shape of your life, have fun and save lives, don't miss the opportunity to come out to the Health Fair at the Jackson County Community Services Building on Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and find out how you can participate."

Sandy Davis of Cullowhee participated as Team in Training team member in the Country Music Marathon in Nashville in April.

"Team in Training paid for my entry fee and some of my other expenses," Davis said. "The people in Jackson County were very supportive and provided donations which went to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. And in addition, I had one corporate sponsor, WestCare, where I work.

"The experience was extraordinary. About the time I started training for the event, I found out that Leavie Reece, a young physical therapy patient of mine, had been diagnosed with leukemia. When I was in training for the event and when I ran the marathon, I was doing it for her.

"The whole thing was a very affirming experience because I was able to meet a physical challenge and meet my goal of raising funds to fight leukemia and lymphoma." Davis was the top fund raiser for Western North Carolina.

"This is a great program through which everyday people can get physically fit through personalized training for races while making a big difference in the fight against leukemia and lymphoma," Jennifer Petosa, a nursing program student at SCC, said. "The SCC Nursing Class of 2007 is very excited to sponsor the Health Fair and we're equally excited that this wonderful organization is going to take part in it."

On Oct. 26, visitors to the Health Fair will also be able to enter a Fun Walk/Run at 1 p.m.
More information on other Health Fair activities, including a number of free screenings, will be announced next week.

For more information, contact Jennifer Petosa at jenpetosa@gmail.com.

» more about the SCC Health Fair

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