Josie Phelps: 100 Miles for Caleb's Crusade!

Caleb’s Crusade is a foundation created in the memory of Caleb Whan, who at the age of 3 complained of leg and arm pain. Within days he was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia and just 7 months later he passed away, only 11 days after his 4th birthday. I can’t imagine the grief and pain that his parents, Monique and Rob, endured in those 7 months and since. Somehow, though, they mustered enough strength and fortitude to start Caleb’s Cruasde in their son’s honor.

I joined them last year as a runner with the goal of running the Disney Half-Marathon. When I started in May I could barely run a mile, but thanks to the AMAZING training this group provided me, I was able to run 9 miles by September! Unfortunately, a foot injury kept me from achieving my goal and keeps me from running to this day.

Caleb’s Crusade, and its mission, had become such an integral part of my life that I knew I couldn’t let my inability to run to keep me from supporting this cause.

So I started biking!

I asked Rob and Monique if I could ride (and fundraise) in Caleb’s honor and they gave me their blessing. So, I’m now officially training for the Tour De Cape, which is a 100 mile bike ride through Cape Coral, Florida on January 22, 2012. 100 miles! That’s the distance from Naples to Sarasota!

(Oh, and did I mention that it was only a year ago that I was deathly afraid to even get on a bike?)

So, yes, this will definitely be a challenge, but I believe it will be so worth it in the end.

Caleb’s Crusade provides funds to children and families affected by childhood cancer. This helps them cope with everyday expenses incurred during treatment and relocation. Please consider sponsoring my ride and helping such a wonderful cause!

THANK YOU, Josie