Race for Russ
The most dangerous phrase in the english language is "we've always done it this way."
Russ always did it differently and he fought with passion and kindness.
My father-in-law taught me the importance of pursuing my dreams, not giving up, not being afraid of what other people think, and rewarding all hard work with an evening glass of wine (or 2). He was an avid cyclist who gave his all to his two passions – family and dentistry. Russ was strong and fought like hell the last couple months of his life. His smile shined behind the phrase "every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day." He lifted me up in times when he struggled to do the same for himself. He was giving and gave me the greatest honor – to be his daughter’s wife. I joined this team and this cause to bring awareness to a cancer that many will unfortunately experience at some point in their life. This cancer is slow growing and can affect even the most healthy and active individuals. It is so critical to start early prevention by getting annual screens. For some men, that means when they are younger if it is a pattern they’ve seen in their family, for others, it starts at age 50 – and it needs to be done yearly. Signs and symptoms do not always correlate with cancer/disease… at times it is very silent until the last stage. Please get screened. Join me in the fight against prostate cancer.
Russ left us physically 04/16/19 - but he is with us spiritually and forever will guide us as we do our best to live this life fully and without regrets. We still have a lot of work to do here on Earth and my own father is also battling this same disease every day. Let’s fight for my dad, let’s remember Russ, and let’s do what we can in finding the cure.
Team ZERO raises funds and awareness to fight prostate cancer - and they do it via marathons and triathlons. Lets do it!! Donate here if you can. We are stronger together.
Sara Paponjak
**I am registered for Ski to Sea (Bellingham) and Olympic Triathlon (Lake Wilderness), plus signing up for several other races coming up - racing in honor of Russ. Please join me if you'd like!!
