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| Michael will be running in memory of his mother Maureen. |
Running for me has always been sort of meditative,” says Fallbrook resident Michael Rineman. “When training for a marathon, I have a routine but savor testing myself alone. I look at it as a way to listen to my heart and my soul [and remember] how important life is.”
Rineman will join 22,000 other runners at the Los Angeles Marathon on Sunday, March 19, and looks forward to the personal gift these 26.2 miles represent to him. “I lost my mother to brain cancer. Her illness has caused me to look around and recognize how others need help. My goal is to build awareness of this disease and raise needed donations for the National Brain Tumor Foundation (NBTF). These dollars will support research and patient service programs.
“My mother, Maureen, was a most special person. She loved life. Her laughter was intoxicating and no one could be sad around her. I want her to be remembered as a wife, mother and grandmother, but most of all she should be remembered for the way she lived life. Every day was new and special to her, and she never compromised her outlook. Thinking of her now, I realize that my own sadness is a waste of my time.”
Rob Tufel, the Executive Director of the National Brain Tumor Foundation, finds inspiration in the people across the country who are running to raise funds for patient programs and research. “We have a program called Racing Ahead for the National Brain Tumor Foundation that attracts people who love to run, walk, cycle or even golf to help in the fight against brain cancer. Every day in the United States, over 500 people are diagnosed with a brain tumor. People like Michael help make a difference.”
When asked to share encouraging words with others facing illness, Rineman is quiet for a moment before answering. “I learned more about life from her death than I did in 36 years of living. I now live in the moment and cherish every minute of it. Do not give up your idea of helping others. After going through what we as a family have, everything else seems pretty simple, including running a marathon.”
To learn about NBTF, visit their Web site, www.braintumor.org, or call 800-934-CURE (2873). Michael Rineman’s Web site is located at www.firstgiving.com/4maureen.
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