Dana Point Mother to Run Marathon to Raise Funds for Cancer Research in Honor of
DANA POINT, CALIF., – Isabel Mattson-Pain of Dana Point is training to participate in the Nike Woman’s Half Marathon in San Francisco on October 18, in an effort to raise funds for cancer research through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Orange County/Inland Empire Chapter’s (LLS) Team In Training® (TNT) program.
Isabel’s 4-year-old son, Alexander, is currently undergoing treatment to battle leukemia, which he was diagnosed with in 2008.
“When Alexander was diagnosed I was shocked, and then I was angry and wondered ‘why him?’” related Isabel. “But I do have hope and feel blessed that he has a curable disease, and want to do what I can to assist in the effort to raise funds to fund research into a cure for blood cancers.”
Isabel and her husband Nick so far have raised over $20,000. Isabel noted, “We’re lucky to have such a broad network of family, friends and colleagues across three continents, and when they learned about Alexander’s condition, they all asked how they could help.”
She continued, “Combining fundraising with an event like TNT is a perfect opportunity for me to give back a little for what Alexander has received in support and care.”
Nick was a participant in LLS’ regatta series, and hopes to race again next year with Alexander as a member of the crew.
Isabel is training regularly for her marathon, and receives ongoing support from TNT staff. She chose to run a half marathon, she related, because “it makes me bold, I’m working towards a goal, and I’m sharing in Alexander’s pain.”
For her birthday, Nick presented her with an iPod and new running shoes.
Isabel was born and reared in Finland, and came to the United States in 1995. She works as a director of marketing for a local investment bank.
To support Isabel in her efforts to fund a cure for blood cancers, visit: http://pages.teamintraining.org/ocie/nikesf09/imattsonpain.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The mission of LLS is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, LLS has invested more than $600 million for research specifically targeting blood cancers. The Society’s Orange County/Inland Empire chapter office is located at 2020 East 1st Street, Suite 120, Santa Ana, CA 92705. Phone: (714) 881-0610. Website: www.lls.org.
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Submitted By;
Jim Graves
