April 16, 2012, will be the 116th Boston Marathon. Although this will be my sixth Boston, I already feel this will be the most meaningful run of my life, as I am running to honor and raise much needed support for my dear friend of 20 years, Amanda Gard.

Let me introduce you to Amanda’s past few years….

Amanda is the single mother of a beautiful 2 ½ year old boy, Justin. At the age of 42, Amanda began experiencing severe back pain in the ninth month of pregnancy and an ultrasound revealed that the pain was caused by a generally slow growing form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that had suddenly gone haywire.

Having a new born son is enough to manage, but Amanda must also manage regular & unexpected hospital visits. Eventually it became clear that chemotherapy wasn’t working so the following year she underwent a stem cell transplant which lead to numerous complications. December 16, 2011, a portion of Amanda’s lung was removed, and she is getting stronger every day. All of this is very costly and not completely covered by her health insurance, but more important to Amanda is that there be some financial “safety net” for her young son.

I would like to ask for your generosity to make a contribution to the “Gard Family Fund”. Please know that any amount would be appreciated, as I imagine beyond the dollars will also be the emotional boost Amanda will capture from knowing friends and strangers alike are willing to help. If you are inclined, please pass this letter to a friend who may want to participate.

So far, my training has been easier than ever, as I am constantly inspired by the optimism and determination Amanda presents every day. I know this will be a very emotional run for me and I thank you deeply.

With gratitude,

Emily