On May 23 , 2021 I will be running in the LA Marathon as a part of the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Research's Training Team. I have chosen this race, this place, and this cause for some pretty compelling reasons. I ran my first Marathon in Los Angeles in 1987, 34Years ago,as well as revisiting and running it in 2020 also.This is the place where I discovered and developed my lifelong love of running. 

I am  running for my friend and ex Brother in law Andy’s father Don Ryan. Don was a veteran, pharmacist, businessman(he owned Ryan Drug Stores), politician, and father of 9 kids. Most important Though he was known for being kind and thoughtful to everyone he knew and met.He was suddenly struck with pancreatic cancer in 1988, and passed away at the young age of 58.His untimely death death was a huge blow to all who loved him.

Don lives on in the hearts of those who loved him .He is a role model  on living your best life and motivates me to do what I can to honor him and do my part to find a cure for this awful disease. 

I also continue to be inspired by last  years Honoree, Stan “Stash” Hirschman , and his life story  continues to encourage me to raise even more money and awareness about pancreatic cancer this year.

The statistics are grim, but with your help we have a chance to improve them. Pancreatic cancer is the #3 cancer killer in the United States amongst both men and women. Nine out of ten pancreatic cancer patients will die. The average life expectancy after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is just 3-6 months.

I will do my part and run the 26.2 miles....I am asking you to please be generous and donate to this worthy cause and help to defeat this extremely lethal disease.

Thank you so much,

Peace

Lee

Vegandadchronicles.com

Please forward this letter to anyone who may want to donate or run!