Team ZERO: Adding Meaning to Miles

December 16, 2019

This was my first year managing Team ZERO, and not being an avid runner or member of the running community, I had no idea what to expect.

From the first event, I was so inspired by the dedication of the athletes, not only in their training, but in their dedication to raising funds for prostate cancer patients and their families. They have almost convinced me that with some training I could run a race with them! 🙂

It’s hard to choose just a few memories or athletes to highlight, as it was so fun to work with all of them and to hear all their different stories. Some are patients and survivors who are letting nothing stand in their way.

Others are family members of friends who were fighting for a loved one that is currently battling, or honoring a loved one that has lost their battle. And many had no connection at all to the cause but wanted to make their miles and training mean so much more than a medal.

One of my favorite things about Team ZERO was getting to meet the athletes in person at the team lunches that we hold before race day. It was so nice to finally meet the athletes along with their family members who served as their inspiration to raise money for the cause.

The ZERO team is already gearing up for next year and Team ZERO registration is now open. I am so excited to see what 2020 has in store and to welcome new athletes as well as continue to build relationships with those who have decided to return.

Let me close with a quote from one of our Team ZERO athletes:

“I’ve done the NYC marathon with Team ZERO for the last four years. Running with them has allowed me to spread prostate cancer awareness via my fundraising efforts at my dental office and on Facebook, always sporting my back bib.

My favorite moments have been the interactions/impact I’ve made at the carbo load party and on the course. I’ve walked with a breast cancer survivor in 2017, met a gent with PCa undergoing more treatments, and finished this year with a 28-year old lady who was cramping.

I’ve high fived dozens along the course (had drinks too) and would have them read my sign and received a lot of hugs. I plan on my 5th NYC with Team ZERO in 2020 and got Vanessa Petersen to commit to do it also. Mahalo and Fight On.”