My desire to be a LIFE Runner in St. Louis is a long time coming. After being sidelined from running by a ski injury last year, setting my sights on St. Louis seemed like an impossiblity.

I am a busy mom with four kids, St.Louis isn't exactly in my backyard, and what if my knee can't handle the training? These were just a few of the obstacles I facedas I contemplated my role as a LIFE Runner.

That all changed one summer evening, when my husband, David, youngest son, Max and I were watching "Life on the Rock." LIFE Runner co-founder Pat Castle was on the program. A native of Sioux Falls and graduate of O'Gorman High School,I was captivated by the story of a South Dakota boy doing something so big for God. Speaking for those who can't speak for themselves, the unborn.

I couldn't sleep that night, I wanted to do my part to stand for life! I stayed up that night printing off training programs and race information, but couldn't commit. I was fearful of failure and what sacrifice my family would have to make for me to train and get to St. Louis.

The next day,my husband said: "Why don't you just do it already?"

That was all the encouragment I needed. Knowing that he would support my efforts on behalf of the unborn, and be there through my training for the kids has made all the difference.

Training has been harder than expected, as I have struggled with some nagging injuries, but thankfully my knee isn't one of them, and I have been able to follow my training very well.

It hasn't been easy. There have been runs that are extremely challenging--so much so that prayer is the only thing that has gotten me through. I call it "Redemptive Running." :)

Won't you be apart of saving chilren at risk in the womb? Won't you stand with me today, for LIFE?

I am choosing to support the Alpha Center in Sioux Falls, SD. They have made a significant impact in my home state. The Alpha Center provides services to men and women involved with unplanned pregnancy.

Free ultrasounds are especially important, because over 80 % of women will chose not to have an abortion after seeing their child. With abortion rates at 35% of all pregnancies, I support Alpha's efforts to provide women in need with ultrasound technology.

Alpha Center not only provides expecting parents a peek at their unborn child, but works with them providing medical and community referrals, options counseling, relationship counseling and even parenting classes.

Please prayerfully consider a donation to Alpha Center in honor of my efforts to run 13.1 miles in St.Louis on October 21.

You won't be sorry, and your reward will be great in heaven! Celebrate LIFE-God's most precious gift.