This note came to us from Team Reeve runner Allegra Felter and we just had to share. She is dedicated and ready as ever to cross that finish line of the 2011 ING New York City Marathon on November 6 for Team Reeve! Here's her letter:

On November 6 I will be running the NYC Marathon. I am running in memory of my father, Greg Felter, who died of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) on June 23, 2007. ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gherig's Disease, attacks the muscle-controlling nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement. ALS ultimately affects all voluntary muscles, resulting in paralysis. ALS works quick - the disease usually progresses rapidly with most individuals dying within 3- to 5-years of diagnosis. At this time, the causes of ALS are unknown nor is there a cure.

My family watched my father's once strong and lean frame wither away while his mind remained acutely sharp. Despite the clinical trials, medication, and therapy there was nothing for my dad to do but wait out what he referred to his "death sentence." As the disease progressed, he became utterly dependent on others to fulfill nearly every activity - big and small. We fed my father, bathed and dressed him, wrote and surfed the Internet for him, transported him from wheelchair to bed, rolled him over when he wanted to move, adjusted his pillows, lit his cigarettes; even scratched the itch on his nose.

Dad was a main supporter of my athletic pursuits. Early on, he rigged a T-Ball stand out of an old hose for me and my sister to practice our swing. For my 9th birthday, my dad made me my individual baseball card that remains one of my prized possessions. Dad shuttled me to early morning swim practice and was an enthusiastic timer and supporter at my swim meets. I know that if he were alive, he would be very proud of me and here on November 6, bellowing in his characteristically gravely voice "Hustle Leggy!"

I have partnered with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and have committed to raising 5,000 dollars for this tremendous organization. After actor Christopher Reeve was paralyzed in an equestrian competition in 1995, the Foundation has been committed to improving the quality of life of those individuals with paralysis. When my dad lost mobility in his legs, he was confined to his wheelchair. Simple activities such as going out on long, country drives or eating out at a restaurant posed several challenges. The Reeve Foundation provides grants to community organizations around the country to modify homes and buildings, provide computer-assistance technologies, improve transportation services for individuals, and offer caregiver support and respite. My family can attest how crucial these services are in caring for a person with paralysis.

So, I have got the running covered- what you need to do is help me raise the $5,000. I know its said all the time - but really, ever dollar counts. The easiest (and preferred) way to donate is to click the link and follow the simple steps. Just so you know, all contributions made to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation are fully tax-deductible. Additionally, many companies have a matching contribution program - does yours?

Simply, thank you. Thanks for helping me with my goal and remembering my father. Keep me in your thoughts November 6 because 26.2 miles is no joke!

Best,
Allegra

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