Going the distance

NEA Today, Feb 2003 by Arce, Irene

When Jeanette Marquardt announced that she planned to run 26.2 miles in Negril, Jamaica, to raise money for the American Stroke Association, her friends and family members thought she was crazy. Or at least, not being serious. But Marquardt, an administrative receptionist for the Northshore school district near Seattle, Washington. was more than serious. She was dedicated to supporting a cause that had touched her personally.

"I am doing the marathon in honor of my mother, who has had several strokes," Marquardt says. "I am excited about running this marathon on behalf of the many people who couldn't even walk it. "

Marquardt began training for the December 7 run back in July after receiving information about the marathon in the mail. Her regimen included running and lifting weights six days a week and weekly training sessions with a team of other marathon participants.

The $4,600 she raised to participate in the run will help fund research, advocacy, and education programs sponsored by the American Stroke Association. Friends, fellow education support professionals, and other co-workers donated most of the money.

"My hope is that the American- Stroke Association will be able to find ways that permit my mother and many others to lead better lives," she says.

-Irene Arce