Angels in America

Every day on the "El," we pass Steppenwolf Theatre. Neither Jenn nor I had attended a production there for some time, but when I pass by I remember seeing "Angels in America" during my freshman year of college. To this day, it impacts my perspective and my life, and I continue to admire the ambitiousness and inspiration of the play. Coincidentally, the HBO miniseries remains, years later, the oldest program saved on our TiVo. As our 2008 journey in the AIDS Marathon ends, we will continue our attempts to pass on that awareness.

Through the program and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, we have seen that the fight against AIDS is no less important today. As we have told some of you, we are fortunate not to have had direct contact with AIDS. Perhaps growing up in our generation sadly makes it part of the reality of the modern world. Fortunately, some do not accept that reality and instead join the fight against AIDS through scientific research, education or health services. Our preparations for our trip to Africa reminded us of how greatly and tragically AIDS and HIV can impact those who are hardest to reach and serve. The AIDS Foundation battles the disparity in education and services locally.

During my freshman year of college, my friends and I helped raise money for Northwestern's Dance Marathon benefiting the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Together, NU students and sponsors raised a staggering amount in the six-figures. Similarly, your generosity while we fundraised this summer showed true selflessness and revealed that there are true angels in America and in our lives. We have been able to draw so much strength and inspiration from those friends and family that have given support to us in so many different ways. (Having stayed awake and "danced" for thirty (30) hours straight and now having run 26.2 miles, I find it difficult to say which was more fun.)

Support came in many ways. Almost two hundred (200) people donated directly in support of our team and we are so grateful. On their own accord and in this difficult economy, a few friends even donated more than once. Others got their co-workers and employers -- complete strangers to us -- to donate. (In one case through Natacha's initiative, $5 donated by each of sixty-nine (69) co-workers added up quickly.) We likewise received continued moral support. Even on the day of the marathon the thoughtful, motivational notes some of you provided really worked, especially in the moments when we ran alone without a spectator or runner in sight.

We dedicate this AIDS Marathon reflection to all of you. The entire journey became so much bigger than the two of us, and we will be even more vigilant for the cause in the future.

Statistics:
Contributions by You and Us: $9,201 (updated 12/12/08 with donations still trickling in)
Number of Donors: 195
Days of Training: 216 (from April 8, 2008)
Total Distance Run Collectively by Jenn and Kinnier: 1,200 miles