Thank You

I just wanted to be able to personally say thank you again for your support of the Team Gleason fundraising efforts through my own personal page.

                                                      Pre-race photo at Rebirth Statue

We raised over $55,000 and some of us are still receiving funds even though race day has passed. The rain held out during the race, though not so much at times during the post race party.

                                                           Team Photo for Team Gleason

We gathered at 7:15 on Saturday morning for a group photo in front of the Rebirth Statue that leads to one of the Superdome entrances near Champions Plaza. For those that may not know the Rebirth state depicts a famous play that Steve Gleason made in a football game almost ten years ago to re-ignite the city upon its return to New Orleans from Hurricane Katrina. 

                                                                  The name says it all

The race course was perfect. A slight bit of humidity only altered the quickness of the course as we ran through the French Quarter, then down Esplanade Avenue, and then finished among the beautiful scenery at City Park, exactly 6.2 miles from the start line that was downtown by the Superdome.  In good 'ole New Orleans fashion, there was even a "dehydration station", for those who wished to partake in a little early morning booze before reaching the finish line.  One of the greatest experiences of my year so far was being able to hear various chants of "Go Team Gleason", during this somewhat easy run on Saturday. 

                                                    The race ended at this beautiful park

                                       This beautiful museum was the backdrop for the finish line

I was able to meet Steve Gleason on Saturday and it was a somewhat humbling experience. His eye recognition software was unable to function as it usually would due to the glare of the sun at that time he was under the Team Gleason Party tent. Before his arrival, Steve would have had to compete with some intermittent rain showers. Steve Gleason is now entering year number five with ALS (average expectancy is two to five years). 

                                          My good friend Wonneken, myself and Steve Gleason

Team Gleason was founded so Steve could stand with others who live with ALS and ensure they have the technology needed to live comfortably with ALS. Most importantly the goal is to find a cure for this crippling disease. Steve and his wife Michel have also assisted in helping folks with ALS be able to experience extraordinary life adventures in life such as climbing Macchu Picchu, cruising the Panama Canal, and even attending Super Bowls. 

                         It's not going to be easy, but it's going to be awesome. Awesome ain't Easy - Steve Gleason

                       

                           

Recently at the Sundance Festival, the documentary Gleason was such a powerful film that even Amazon Studios purchased the rights to it. Stayed tuned for its release in July. 

I hope you have enjoyed a few pictures that I have attached throughout this post. 

Thanks again for your support,

   John T

          

   Ran into an old buddy        Under the Team Gleason Tent

   We were treated very well as charity runners!