A Penny Per Pound: Powerlifting to Fight Multiple Myeloma

I'm reaching out to share a personal story and ask for support a cause close to my heart.

That's my buddy Dave side-eyeing me. I met Dave at the University of Rochester 30 years ago. He was one of those guys who could effortlessly and genuinely befriend anyone. He was also unfailingly intelligent and thoughtful - who else thinks to send a note when your grandfather passes away? In November 2013, we lost Dave to multiple myeloma, at the young age of 36. I was so lucky to count him as a close friend. It all happened so fast, there was barely anytime to say goodbye or even thank you.

Soon after he passed, his brother Matty offered me some of Dave's clothes to keep, some t-shirts and button-downs. Even though Dave and I were roughly the same height, his clothes didn't really fit me. That inspired me to get into better shape. Soon after, I started a weight-training regimen and haven't looked back since.

Fast forward 11 years, Dave's clothes came to fit and I got to wear them often as a small, personal tribute. The weight training has became a passion. On February 16th in Norwood, NJ, I will be competing in my first power-lifting event, the Garden State Winter War Powerlifting competition. I feel like I finally have an opportunity to somehow thank Dave for his friendship and inspiration to take this journey.

To help find a cure for multiple myeloma, I am asking for a pledge of one penny for every pound I lift in competition in Dave's memory. My plan is to lift a total of 3600 pounds, which equates to $36. However, any amount is welcome. All proceeds will go to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Thank you so much for your support.