Dear Friends and Family,

During these holiday and festive times, I began reflecting on how my family and I can reach out and “give” to those who are in need and who don’t have as much as we do. Then, I thought of families who have a parent who is terminally ill and who is struggling to maintain his/her living. This must be very difficult to deal with. I had flashbacks of one of my cousins going through this ordeal many years ago while her mother was fighting the “breast cancer” battle. In addition to this memory, my husband’s Uncle George Kuhlkin, who was challenged with cancer, is now resting in God’s heavens. What a strong and caring man he was! These unfortunate and yet unforgettable memories still remain in my heart and soul. It almost seems like it happened yesterday.

Every year my family and I go to Disney World so that I can run the 1/2 marathon while my husband and children enjoy the rides. We actually make it a tradition to have our parents spend time with us and share exciting memories with my three children during our short visits.

I’m proud to tell you that I will be running the New York City Half Marathon on March 21st 2010 as part of the “Inheritance of Hope” team.  It’s a fantastic opportunity for me not only to complete one of the greatest races in the world, but to help make a difference in the lives of thousands of children.  I need your help to achieve one of my goals – to fundraise on behalf of the “Inheritance of Hope.” The organization’s mission is to improve well-being in the lives of children and families with a parent diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.

The money that you contribute will go to support their mission by providing retreats at no cost to the participating families.  These events offer unique and fun activities for parents and children together, forming precious, lifelong memories for the whole family.  They are also restful – a rare luxury for ill parents.  Beyond the Family Retreats, “Inheritance of Hope” also offers inspirational literature and speaking engagements that address the deep needs of these families.

They create a community of people who find comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles.

Please join me in exceeding my goal of raising $1000.00 for “Inheritance of Hope” in loving memories of my Aunt, Elenita Hernadez, and my husband’s Uncle, George Kuhlkin. My deep prayers and sentiments go to them as well as those who have passed away with other types of diseases, with the hopes that we can touch many families through our collective support.

Learn more about “Inheritance of Hope” at www.inheritanceofhope.org".

I hope you’ll support me and make a donation.  Any amount will be greatly appreciated.  It will not only spur me on, but it will also go towards a worthy cause.

Thank you for your support and compassion,

Karen Echeverria-Pinna

As a member of Team Inheritance of Hope, my participation in the NYC Half Marathon on March 21, 2010 will raise funds and awareness for Inheritance of Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving families with children who have a parent with a life-threatening illness.  Help me meet (or exceed!) my goal of $1,000.  With your contribution, we can share together in the joy of helping to build legacies for families who are facing a tremendous challenge in their lives.