Going the Extra Mile
Each day we are presented with choices and opportunities which shape our journey. Whether it’s doing the dishes, cutting the lawn, organizing our workspace, presenting in a meeting, cooking dinner, coaching soccer, playing with our kids, having a conversation with our spouse, or whatever other tasks make up our days – how we do one thing is how we do everything.
We can choose to give our best effort, or we can mail it in. Best is a relative term, in this sense. Everyone’s best looks different. Our own best may change from day to day, depending on the circumstances and challenges we face. Still yet, we can choose to give our best or not.
For me, the path is clear: Go the extra mile. This mantra has driven me to push boundaries and strive for excellence in all that I do.
If you follow me on Strava or AllTrails, you’ll see my recent hikes, runs, and rides are in odd denominations. Maybe it’s a six-mile hike instead of five, or a 101-mile ride instead of an even 100. Lately, I’ve made it a point to add an extra mile to whatever I set out to do, literally and figuratively.
This October, I'm taking this mantra to new heights by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro as part of the St. Jude Heroes program. This expedition is more than a physical challenge; it supports an excellent cause: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and the highest freestanding mountain in the world, symbolizes endurance and perseverance. Climbing it is no small feat, but it pales in comparison to the battles faced by the children at St. Jude. These young warriors fight life-threatening diseases with incredible resilience. Their strength inspires me every day to go the extra mile for those who need it most.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a beacon of hope for families worldwide. Their mission is to advance cures and prevention for pediatric cancer through research and treatment. No child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family's ability to pay. This commitment to world-class care and groundbreaking research is why I am proud to be a St. Jude Hero.
The decision to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is not just about personal achievement; it’s about making a difference. Every step I take up that mountain is a step towards a future where no child dies from cancer. This journey embodies the essence of going the extra mile—pushing beyond our limits to achieve something greater than ourselves.
I invite you to join me in this mission. Your support can make a huge difference for the children at St. Jude. Here are a few ways you can help:
1. Donate: Visit my fundraising page to make a tax-deductible contribution. Every dollar brings us closer to a cure. Every cent of your donation goes directly to St. Jude for treatment and research. I’m covering my own travel expenses and gear.
2. Share: Spread the word by sharing links to my project and fundraising page with your network. The more people we reach, the greater our impact.
3. Get Involved: Consider becoming a St. Jude Hero yourself. Whether it’s running a marathon, hosting a fundraiser, or simply spreading awareness, every effort counts.
Going the extra mile is about more than achieving personal goals; it’s about making a positive impact in the world. This climb represents the challenges we all face in life and a reminder that with determination, support, and a willingness to go above and beyond, we can overcome any obstacle. I am honored to take on this challenge for St. Jude and invite you to join me in making a difference. Together, we can reach new heights and bring hope to those who need it most.