Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Trying the Tri: Three Events, Three Women, One Mission

In my life, when it comes to empowering female role models, there are three women in particular who stick out the most. My mother (Therese), and two aunts (Joyce and Lisa) have always been the most loving, selfless, hilarious, kind, and wonderful examples of sisterhood I know.

One evening in April, Mom told me that the three of them had signed up for the Mason Triathlon happening at the end of July.

After I got over how absolutely IMPRESSED I was, I asked why they had decided to do this? They wanted to raise money for my cousin’s oldest son Carter, and thought this would be a unique way to spread awareness, and get people to sponsor them.

In May of 2012, Carter was diagnosed with MPS II (Hunter Syndrome). He is approaching his 6th birthday, and has been undergoing gene therapy treatments for over 3 years. Gene therapy is potentially life saving for MPS II patients; and could lead to permanent treatment for the neurological and physical advancement of the disease.
Clockwise from top: Lisa, Therese, Carter, and Joyce
Three women, all mothers, all over (or almost) 50 years old, all dedicated to help raise money for this little boy while also pushing their own physical limits in the process.

Now THAT is strong and sexy.

Before the race I sat down with the terrific trio, and discussed the importance of staying active, their training, and what exactly sparked the flame to sign up for a triathlon and raise money for gene therapy research. To read the FULL INTERVIEW please click the link and visit Strong Is Our Sexy.

After months and months of training, the morning of the Tri-umphant Triathlon arrived, and the weather was absolutely perfect. Nice cloud coverage, still decent humidity, but zero wind. Decked out in MPS Purple, and waving our hand made signs, we were definitely the most spirited support group there.
A 400 meter swim, 12 miles on a bike, and finishing up with a 5K run. All that, and these ladies didn't stop smiling the entire time. 
With hands locked tight; Joyce, Therese, and Lisa crossed the finish line in just over 1 hour and 35 minutes.
It was an inspirational morning bursting with encouragement, determination, and an immeasurable amount of love for one special little boy.

Team "Caring for Carter" raised over $15,000 dollars, and 100% of the money is going towards MPS II (Hunter Syndrome) gene therapy research. To learn more about Carter’s story, please visit www.cartermps2.com. You can also make a donation today at Carter’s National MPS Society Inc. Donor Page, or with Go Fund Me.

Giving back, staying strong, and inspiring others at any age, THAT is what being STRONG and SEXY is all about.

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