An Appealing Challenge: Chuck Takes on the NYC Tri!

When his brother was diagnosed with multiple myeloma last summer, Chuck Rettig wanted to help in some way. As a cyclist, he found the idea of entering in a triathlon both “challenging and appealing,” and this year he will participate in the New York City triathlon. In the process of sending out the donation requests, Chuck was touched by the support and empathy of those he contacted. “I was very surprised to find out how many others have some form of cancer in their family,” he says. The research done by the MMRF has benefited patients of many other forms of cancer, and on race day, Chuck will not only be helping his brother, but also all those whose lives have been touched by cancer

A True Ironman

For New Yorker Scott Janicola, participating in the NYC triathlon is an important part of his journey to the Panama City Beach Ironman, which will take place November 5^th. Though he has never owned running shoes and had minimal cycling and swimming experience, Scott set this huge goal to show his children that “you can achieve anything you want if you’re willing to make a commitment.” He also hopes that by working hard to get in shape, he will be an example to others and help them live healthily. The race also marks the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy, and as a New Yorker, Scott wishes to represent and honor the many who perished. He draws inspiration from the stories of other Ironman participants like Dick and Rick Hoyt, and others who have overcome physical obstacles to achieve what no one thought possible. Scott joined the MMRF team as a way to get into the NYC triathlon, and though he is not personally affected by multiple myeloma, he is thrilled to have raised nearly $3,000 for the cause. “I don’t believe in coincidences,” he says. “It was supposed to happen this way so I could pay it forward.”

Seasoned Triathlete - Reaching Goals With a Little Help From His Friends!

John Paulson is a seasoned triathlete, and we are so excited that he has joined the MMRF PowerTeam for the NYC Triathlon! He first learned of the MMRF through a friend who has multiple myeloma, and he thought it would be “a great one to get involved with." Having the support of a group is crucial when taking on challenges like running a marathon, fundraising, and finding a cure for multiple myeloma. "I have a strong community of friends who I know will help me raise money for the cause!” he says. Finding a cure is a goal we can only hope to reach by working together, and with each person that joins the fight we get closer to achieving it. Welcome to our team, John!

Ben Remembers his Father-In-Law

Ben Rosenbaum is competing in the NYC Triathlon in honor of his father-in-law, Joseph Berman, who passed away from multiple myeloma in December 2009. Inspired by Joseph’s memory, Ben is working hard to help make a difference in the lives of other patients so that they may live longer, richer lives in spite of the obstacles set by this illness. Through his selfless giving of his time and effort, Joseph’s memory lives on.

Unphased by the Hard Days!

Renata Svoboda is participating in the NYC Triathlon to support her aunt, who is suffering from multiple myeloma. Renata is no stranger to endurance events; she ran the NYC Marathon with Team for Kids last year. She still admits that training is difficult. “I’ve been working on it every day,” she says. “This is not easy, but it is something I want to achieve in order to help others.” The goal of completing the triathlon is only part of Renata’s greater goal of helping patients like her aunt. This is what keeps her motivated and helps her push through even the most difficult of training days.

Remembering His Father's Courage

Approximately one year ago, Joseph Polomene’s father, Anthony J. Polomene, passed away after a long battle with multiple myeloma. Joseph is competing in the NYC Triathlon as a tribute to his father’s courage, and he is helping make a difference for patients like his father who live with this disease every day.