David Gjeldum

I believe in hope.

Thanks to my father, I have been involved in athletics my entire life. I played lacrosse in college, and since have constantly challenged myself to complete new physical challenges- from power lifting to triathlons and distance running.

My dad was in excellent shape, maintained himself physically, spiritually and emotionally, and ate extremely well. He was my inspiration to excel in all things. He was the most caring and thoughtful person I have ever met. My dad was my hero.

He passed away in 2008, after fighting a long and painful battle with bone cancer.

Up until his death, my dad cared most about others and their well being, even if it meant sacrificing his own interests for the sake of others. That's why, in his honor and memory, I've finally decided to set out to do what I can for the most innocent and undeserving cancer patients: children.

This year, I will be training for and tackling my first full marathon - the 2011 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Please consider supporting my efforts with a tax-deductible donation to Endure to Cure. You can make a huge difference in the life of a child, and ultimately, contribute to the long term goal of curing cancer. Talk about a feel-good!

Our combined efforts will help to fund a clinical survivorship study at the University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, reducing the harsh long-term effects of intensive cancer treatment. For details of this study our team is hoping to fully-fund, please click here.

Let's make a difference! No donation is too small. Thank you!