I have never been athletic. I was always the child who tripped and did poorly in PE class. But in 2010, I decided to do something that had always seemed unachievable for someone like me: I decided to start training for my first ever marathon. Given my life-long passion for helping those who cannot speak for themselves, I wanted to do this only if it were also helping raise awareness/funds for a cause that is dear to my heart: saving animals.

After months of hard work, sweat, determination, and dedication, I joyously greeted the 2011 Honda LA Marathon on March 20. The knowledge that my friends, family, acquaintances, and even people who I'd never met had sponsored me, and knowing that every bit of money I raised for Kitten Rescue's Hope Fund would be used to save a life... well, that kept me going despite the record-breaking rainstorm, cold, and winds of the day. Completely soaked and exhausted, but with a feeling of triumph and euphoria (and a bit of hypothermia thrown in), I crossed the finish line of my very first marathon and raised over $5300 for the animals.

I felt wonderful having reached my goal, but I knew that my fellow animal lovers could also accomplish what I had, and that perhaps together, as a team, we could raise a more substantial amount of funds, and save a far greater number of lives. And so began "Team Kitten Rescue": animal lovers of all walks of life, walking or running the 2012 Honda LA Marathon, as a way to raise more funds for Kitten Rescue's efforts.

While the big day is still many months away, I ask you, my dear friends, to sponsor me for the 2012 Honda LA Marathon. The fuel that keeps me going is knowing that I have your support, and that as a result, animals' lives will be saved.

Every penny that goes to Kitten Rescue is spent on the cats (and dogs). I began volunteering at age 11, and have continued to do so the entire 32 years that has followed, and even with that many years of volunteering, I can safely say that Kitten Rescue is one of the most deserving volunteer-run, non-profit organizations I have ever worked with. Rest assured that your donation will be well spent for one purpose and one purpose only: to save the lives of animals who may otherwise not have a chance to live.

So, humbly I ask: please sponsor my upcoming participation in the 2012 Honda LA Marathon by clicking "DONATE" on this page. After you have donated, you can return to the TEAM'S MAIN PAGE if you wish to see the total amount raised by the entire team so far!

Thank you for giving me your support and love, and thank you for giving them a chance to live.

For the animals,

minoo