Garv runs 26.2, supporting Fisher House Foundation
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Hello, my name is Alex and this year I will be running the 2020 Marine Corps Marathon. Due to ongoing public health concerns surrounding Covid-19, the MCM organization has elected to hold this year's event virtually. The MCM hang its hat on being "the people's marathon," motivating individuals to come together and run with the marines in our nation's capital. The 45th people's marathon will look different this year. As a first time marathoner, running 26.2 miles already feels intimidating. Running it alone seems futile.
Since the virtual option was announced, I saw my motivation begin to waver. I felt pulled again and again to back out for fear of failure. My initial motivation was to have a focus, a project, while my husband was deployed. I was looking forward to running with the masses, seeing DC from a new perspective, and crossing the physical finish line. With a virtual race, I was in need of new motivation.
In search of this new motivation, I did some research on the history of MCM and learned about the significance of the race over the years. The MCM organization holds a series of events annually, all events celebrate the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. The reward, a mission accomplished. I began additional research on organizations and foundations that reflected these same values. My research led me to Fisher House Foundation.
With over 88 houses nationwide and overseas, the Fisher House Foundation provides cost free home stays to military and veteran families while a loved one is receiving medical treatment at adjacent military and VA hospitals. Due to Covid-19 and the cancellation of elective surgeries, there are less families in need of the foundation's accommodations. In order to provide continued support to needing populations, Fisher House has shifted their focus to front-line medical workers. Fisher House has opened their doors to the medical staff of hospitals, providing them with living quarters, food, and overall respite from the fight against Covid-19.
This year, in addition to running the 45th MCM, I will be raising money for the Fisher House Foundation. As I tackle my own physical and mental hurdles that come with running a marathon, I will know there is something bigger to strive for, a mission to accomplish. 2020 may not be the year we expected, but the choice is ours to adapt and show true resiliency. Fisher House Foundation has done exactly that and continues to show a commitment to those in need. Please consider donating today to further support Fisher House and their pledge to military families and the front-line workers of Covid-19.
Thank you,
Alex Garvey
For more information on Fisher House, visit https://fisherhouse.org/
