Training to benefit leukemia

     Leukemia is the number one fatal childhood illness. To help combat cancer and to raise funds for a cure, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is hosting a kick-off for the Team-in-Training program.
     The program, which trains marathon and triathlon teams, will start Sunday, Nov. 12, at the Wyndam Garden Hotel in Dallas.
The program was founded in 1988 as an endurance-training program for novice and experienced walkers, runners and cyclists.
     Participants will train to run a 26.2-mile marathon, cycle (100 miles) or complete an Olympic distance triathlon, including a 1500-meter swim, a 40-kilometer bicycle ride and a 10-kilometer run.
     Comprehensive training schedules geared toward an individual’s ability, four months of supervised training from professional coaches, tips on nutrition, injury prevention, training techniques, sports psychology, entry fees and travel accommodations will be provided by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
     Participants will benefit from strength, increased flexibility, cardiovascular endurance and weight control.
     Participants, in return, raise funds to help find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma and other blood-related cancers. Of the funds raised, 72 percent will go directly to research, patient aid and education.
     Anyone interested in joining the program can join one of the teams at the kick-off in Dallas or get more information on upcoming marathons in Maui, Hawaii, and Vancouver, Canada, as well as a triathlon event in St. Petersburg, Fla.
     Coaches and alumni from previous teams will be at the kick-off, as well as patients who are currently battling leukemia. For more information about Team-in-Training, visit www.nlsa.org or call the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 972-239-0959, ext. 218.