It's astounding to me how well people have responded to this adventure I am on. I have the most amazing circle of friends, family and loved ones who have come out in droves to encourage me on the Quest for a Cure. Therefore, thank you, thank you, thank you to all who have come out to donate to my cause. You're amazing people who are saving lives.
1) Earl and Carol Foster, Huntington, WV: my wonderful uncle and aunt and great supporters (not to mention advisors on all things bone and joint related).
2) Jen Bruns, Waterloo, Iowa: My lifelong horse-crazy (be them steel or flesh-and-blood) friend and "little sis."
3) Kate and Jeremy Bartelt, Minneapolis, Minn: My "BFFs," personal environmental advisors and favorite people with whom to drink raspberry tea at 3 a.m.
4) Lisa and Greg Oelke, Dalhart, Texas: My fantastic cousins and first people to ever take me mountain climbing.
5) Damon Coughlin, Collinsville, IL: My best friend from college, former housemate and über-talented cardiac nurse.
5) Doug and Jo Young, Iowa City, Iowa: My father's fraternity brother and his wife, who have long been something of a joyous, tailgating aunt and uncle to me.
6) Larry and Sheryl Foster, Sioux City, Iowa: My parents, my greatest supporters throughout my life, my friends and the pair who taught my brothers and me the importance of philanthropy.
7) Paul and Mary Jo Peterson, Mt. Prospect, Il.: My warm, loving and supportive in-laws. How lucky am I to have this family on my side?
8) Allison Smith, Palatine, Il.: A wonderful person whom I am overwhelmingly lucky to call "friend" and a source that I officially can never quote. Some sacrifices are more than worthy of being made.
9) Jason C. Foster, Alexandria, Va.: My oldest brother, great advisor on all things long-distance training and "GTMO Bad Boy."
10) Lt. Kelsey C. Foster, Lafayette, Ind.: My older brother, an outstanding advisor, supporter and All American Hero.
11) Jenn Wiant, Chicago, Ill.: Jenn is a colleague, a friend and an inspiration. This remarkable woman is capable of getting a master's degree in journalism from one of the nation's top schools, handling two people's jobs and training for a marathon - at the same time. What a special person and how lucky I am to count her among my friends.
12) Lorraine Duchnowski, Pekin, Ill.: I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Mrs. Duchnowski. Here is a gracious woman whom I have yet to meet, but who is willing to reach into her heart and pocket book to support a stranger all at the behest of her equally remarkable granddaughter, Jillian. Thank you, Mrs. Duchnowski. Thank you.
13) The Enck family, Crystal Lake, Ill.: Becki, Tim, Abby and Cam started as sources and quickly became friends. I had the honor of meeting this wonderful family when they welcomed me into their lives to tell their story. Now they are turning the tables, giving me both spiritual and financial support; and I appreciate it immensely.
I would be remiss not to thank one person whose contributions transcend the monetary, standing, walking and sweating alongside me throughout this entire experience to date. And I don't doubt that he will continue to do so:
Andrew Joseph Peterson, Palatine, Il. My amazing husband who has already logged hours in the tennis shoes with me to get ready for August; who has endured hours of mindless babble about the walk; who has carefully planned meals so my diet stays healthy; who puts up with his wife's crazy work schedule and ethic; and who is giving up his wife for three days so she can sleep in a tent, walk under the blazing hot sun and most likely come home smelling a bit like cheese. I love you, babe.
Thanks to all of you who are reading this blog, supporting me along my way and sending thoughts and encouragement.
With best wishes for good health and love,
Regan
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