Almost a year ago, our dear friend Allison Levine was diagnosed with gastric cancer. As you can imagine, this past year has been full of ups and downs for Ali and her family. She and her husband Jeremy have been pillars of strength and shown so much grace during difficult times.

On June 28, 2009, I will be participating in the Kensington Triathlon (Milford, MI) in Ali's honor. Ali has given me and all her friends so much love, support and understanding and has never asked for anything in return. We are asking for any donations to join in honoring Ali and her fight with gastric cancer. Our goal is to raise enough funds for her family to be used for any matter they choose or they find necessary.

This fundraiser will end on Ali's birthday and I will proudly wear a shirt during the race that has every donor's name written on the fabric! I hope the entire shirt is covered with ink and she sees this as a source of inspiration! Special thanks to Kelly Desatnik and Camille Ruane for helping develop the idea for the Levines.

Update: March 9, 2009

Today, I am writing to inform all who have donated and those who wish to contribute that Allison passed away in the early morning hours. Her family was by her side and she was surrounded with love. This fundraiser will benefit her wonderful husband Jeremy and little boy Noah who is a beautiful child with so many qualities that remind me of Ali. I still plan to run the race in June in her loving, amazing, and awe-inspiring memory. I love you Ali.

Update March 26, 2009

I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who have donated and to let everyone know the group that is running that day is growing quickly! So far, my super awesome, wonderful, beautiful friend Beth Hoegler will be joining me in Allison's honor. Also, my amazing, loving, loyal and super fit cousin Kristy Daniel is supporting Allison's honor. My friend and trainer Kari Karhoff is also competing in the triathlon. So, I want to thank everyone, again, for their support. Love to you all!

Anyone interested in joining in on the race can find info at elementevents.com

You can read more about Ali's journey at www.caringbridge.org/visit/allisonlevine