"Van Man" Medical Marathon

"Do you think I can do a marathon with less than 3 weeks of training?"

That was my recent question to a friend who has done many distance races. His response started with laughter, as it probably should! After explaining my why, he was more encouraging, and even expressed confidence, perhaps feeling the motivation behind my cause...

You'd have to look pretty hard to find a friend any better than Jason Van Ausdal. We've been good friends for close to 4 decades, and I have called him simply "Van Man" for most of that time. We've experienced many highs and lows along the way. But I was not prepared to learn just recently that he had suffered a stroke and had been in the hospital for several days, with a stay of several more days still to come, and ongoing care needed after that. Life can change so quickly!

Van Man has worked hard to provide for their family. His dear wife, Sydney, has worked hard at home raising their 3 children (ages 11 to 16). After visiting with them, we all struggle to know what can be done to help, given our limited medical knowledge. And no one can adequately plan for the costs of these unexpected events.

One thought that came was to complete a marathon race with the dedicated intention of raising funds to help ease one of their burdens, while Jason continues progressing in his "marathon" of relearning even some of the basics like swallowing, standing, walking, etc. Thankfully, he IS making good progress!! We have even shared some laughs as we compare memories! I'm not on social media, but Sydney tells me that, as time allows between doctor and therapist visits, she posts occasional progress updates here: https://www.facebook.com/jvanman

Or here:

https://www.facebook.com/sydney.vanausdal

With all of that as my motivation, I started searching for a marathon to complete in the coming months. It seemed sentimentally perfect when I found the Antelope Island marathon taking place on Friday, October 7, in Syracuse, Utah, the town where it was my privilege to develop an enduring friendship with the Van Man during our growing-up years.

I am not a runner...I cannot say I've "enjoyed" either of the 2 prior marathons I've completed...and I anticipate this marathon with my sparse preparation will be very uncomfortable to complete. But my little challenge pales in comparison to what this good family is experiencing with no preparation! Will you please consider joining me in contributing whatever might be possible in your circumstances to help support the Van Ausdal's?

Please share this link in any way that may help the family...Thank you!!