Dear Family and Friends,

On Saturday, November 3rd I'll be putting on my Speedo and jumping into the San Francisco Bay.

It isn't very often we get the opportunity to do something that benefits us personally and makes a difference in the lives of others as well. I have such an opportunity and I am asking you to share in it with me.

In about 2 days, I will be swimming, running and biking in the Treasure Island Triathlon as a member of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training (TNT). TNT provides three months of training, coaching, weight training and a lot of support to prepare participants for a successful triathlon. I am participating for my honoree, Karah Wood and the thousands of others who battle leukemia every day.

Karah is an outgoing three year old. One month before her second birthday, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). After months of chemotherapy she began maintenance, but a few weeks ago Karah had a relapse. Leukemia cells have been found in her bone marrow and her chances of survival have dropped dramatically from 80% to 20%. She is now hoping for a bone marrow transplant. Karah lives in Fresno with her parents and her 14-year-old brother. When she is feeling well, she enjoys going on walks and bike rides and she has a new love of swimming. Karah's favorite toys are her Barbies. She calls them her *friends* because she's been unable to be around children since her diagnosis.

In addition to swimming 1 mile, running for 6 miles and biking for 25 miles, I have made the commitment to raise $3000. For every dollar raised a minimum of 75% will directly fund research, education and patient support programs. With this letter I am asking for your support in the fight against leukemia and lymphoma. Here's your chance to make a difference! Your contributions are 100% deductible. (If you are unable to contribute at this time, expressions of encouragement are always welcome!)

I am hoping to reach my goal by November 24th, (yes, TNT has graciously extended my deadline since I have yet to reach my goal) so please respond soon by clicking on the Donate link and printing out the form.
I appreciate your friendship and support. Your encouragement will help get me across the finish line in San Francisco!

Sincerely,
Kirk Johanns