My connection to Teen Cancer America crosses through both my personal and professional life.  

I lost a friend to cancer when I was in high school.  It came at the time when I thought I was invincible, when I could do anything and had the answers for anyone and anything.   This loss devastated a family and humbled me in a way that has stuck with me for 40 years.

At the same time of my life, I was a huge fan of The Who.  I thought at the time and still think that Quadrophenia is one of the best albums ever made.  In fact, I saw The Who in 1982 at Shea Stadium, the same year my friend passed from cancer.  TCA was founded by Roger and Pete from The Who, helping make another connection for me.

Finally, there is work, where part of my job is focused on Philanthropy focused on Affordable Housing, Economic Development and Community Services.  Its rewarding, but it omits any focus, by design, on Health Care.  As the son of a doctor and a nurse and the father of a Clinical Psychologist and a Nurse, I feel deeply connected to health care in this country.

So taking it all together, TCA is a great fit for my first marathon as it brings together a lot for me which should sustain me as I roll from mile 20 to 26.2.  Thank you for thinking of supporting me.

Bob