Life has a funny way of disrupting our plans.  I never planned to get cancer; I never expected it would take nearly five years to fully recover from that cancer.  And I certainly never planned on finding and getting involved with an organization that has altered (for the better) the course of my life.  Attending a First Descents camp was the best decision I made following my cancer diagnosis.  My first FD camp was a week-long rock climbing camp in Jackson, Wyoming.  After rappelling off the side of a cliff in the Tetons, surrounded by other survivors cheering me on and waiting with hugs at the bottom, I knew that my life was somehow altered and my view of myself as a young-adult cancer survivor was about to become much more positive.  The experience and the people helped me realize just how strong I am and taught me the beauty of living every day to its utmost.

Being a part of Team FD gives me the opportunity to give back at least some of what First Descents has given me: by fundraising and pushing myself to my physical limits, I can help offer other survivors the opportunity to experience the magic that is an FD camp.  Running the Boston Marathon for this organization is beyond anything I could have hoped for: both of these things mean so much to me.  I can't believe I am actually getting the chance to go back to Boston as a runner in the marathon.

For the first time in five years, I am actually healthy.  First Descents gave me the tools and the confidence to greet each day and every challenge with an open mind and a willingness to appreciate even the most difficult situations.  26.2 miles is a tremendous challenge, but it is one I want to tackle for First Descents.  Please join me on this crazy journey and help my efforts to send as many survivors as possible to a week of awesomeness.

And follow my progress across the Internet!  Tell everyone you know; share links and excitement.

Twitter: @cc_bridges

Blogger:  http://thoughtlessrunning.blogspot.com

Any donation is tremendously appreciated, or join the team and set your own crazy goals! Thank you so much, and see you at the finish line!