10 Questions

1. What inspired you to undertake such a challenge?
   
   “The Last Lecture,” by Randy Pausch moved me to examine my own list of Childhood Dreams.  I have been blessed with many wonderful opportunities, and some amazing experiences. However, one thing that was always in the back of my mind was the marathon.  Of course, I have never been a runner, but the thought of being able to run for 26.2 miles was captivating.   After watching “The Last Lecture,” I realized that time slips by too fast and running a marathon at 35 years old has got to be easier than at 45 or 65! 
   
   
2. What is Team In Training?
   
   The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Team in Training (TNT) is a sports training program that helps people maximize their potential.  Not only do they focus on working with seasoned athletes to reach new levels, they train couch potatoes and average people to complete endurance events like marathons and triathlons.  It is not only a physical experience, but some say a soulful experience.  All of the training is provided free of charge, in exchange the team members raise awareness of the LLS mission and raise funds to support the search for a cure for blood related cancer!
   
   
3. What is the Goal?
   
   Raise $1,000 per mile for a total of 26.2 miles to fund the LLS mission
   Complete the Walt Disney World Marathon on January 10, 2010
   
   
4. Why LLS Team In Training?
   
   They are an incredible non-profit organization.  The LLS is one of the most efficiently managed non-profits in the country with 74 cents of every dollar spent directly on mission related activities.  I have many friends and family members who were directly affected by some form of blood cancer. This organization’s mission is to find a cure and improve the quality of life for those stricken with blood related cancer.  For me, it increases the importance of running this marathon. The experience has transformed from one guy trying to do one thing for one person, to one guy joining thousands of people united under a singular mission to help hundreds of thousands of others.  We can never underestimate the importance of “any little morsels of hope.”
   
   
5. Are you an athlete?
   
   No.  I am a contractor and a parent.  Going on a “run,” usually meant driving to the store to buy supplies, or perhaps some beer for the weekend.
   
   
6. How can I become involved?
   
   Easy! Go to my webpage http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/wdw10/jdelauder and check on my training progress and show your support by making a donation. You can even follow a link to join the Team In Training.
   
   
7. What is the “Coating For A Cure” Raffle?
   
   This is a way for me to share the skill I have as a decorative concrete coating specialist to help the LLS. Tri-State Concrete Coatings, Inc is donating a standard 2 car garage floor epoxy coating installation worth approximately $2,500. One lucky winner will receive an awesome floor while helping fund the research to find a cure for blood cancers.  We will offer raffle entries for $25 each, five for $100. Please feel free to donate as much as you would like.
   
   
8. Are Donations Tax Deductible?
   
   YES, all contributions are 100% tax deductible.
   
   
9. Do you or Tri-State Concrete Coatings get any of the money raised?
   
   Absolutely not! We have been serving our customers decorative concrete coatings needs for 10 years, and the Coating For a Cure raffle and fundraiser are part of our way of thanking our customers and serving our community.
   
   
10. What do I do if I see you, or your teammates training?
    
    Shout “Go Team!”