week 3 begins

Training: Today I had a whole day of errands so by 6:30 I was a little sleepy. But once we got going, I had a really decent run with Erin and Tiffany. We did 30 min up to a little past the end of the tunnel. It's definitely "faster" when I got to learn more about Tiffany as we jogged. Now SHE is someone to admire as well. I think all three of us did a really good pace that worked for us. AWESOME.

Other: I just read another Honoree's bio, Kurt's and I was SO inspired! It feels so good to be on this team. I copied my bio here for others who haven't seen it. Sorry if the grammar is off, I space out lately.

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Getting to know Honoree Janice Chan 8/8/08


Diagnosed: Beginning of September 2005.
Type of blood cancer: Hodgkin’s Disease/Lymphoma

Why Team In Training?
Why not?! I’ve been wanting to do this last year, but my doctors would probably tell me not yet. Now I feel okay and I am truly inspired by all the amazing runners, volunteers and staff that put in so much dedication in helping people like me. People really do make a difference with TNT. I’ve been on the receiving end of it and now it’s about time to give back.

If you are also a participant, what event will you be training for?

The Nike Women’s Marathon in October!!

Why did you decide to become an honoree?
Well I went to an info meeting and told the coaches my story. That’s when I was introduced to the honoree program. At first I wasn’t sure because I didn’t know how I could inspire other really dedicated participants since I felt pretty “normal”. Then I realized there are a lot of cancer patients out there that is going through the same treatments I’ve had, and might be unable to come to TNT events. I feel like I can be the connection between those patients and anyone that luckily doesn’t have to go through anything cancer related.

I am very fortunate to be where I am right now, and it would be an honor for me to be a part of TNT this year along everyone else.

What motivates you?

It gives me a tremendous amount of support knowing that people in the community can come together and do something good- something that can uplift an individual that is fighting for the battle of their life, and at the same time making a difference.

During my rough times, it was definitely my family, boyfriend, and friends that kept me going. I’ve had some amazing health staff at UCSF (Dr. Kaplan, Dr Martin, Cheryl Breed, Tom Leahy, Tiffany Harris) and Contra Costa Regional (Dr. Lim, Carla, Sue, Cara and Terri) that have always provided me with warm attentive care, which I admit made a huge difference in my mood swings.

What is your favorite food/restaurant?
My favorite type of food would definitely be authentic Hong Kong style cafes. My favorite restaurants so far would Shabuway in San Mateo, the space needle restaurant in Seattle, and lastly, Taqueria Cononita at the Venetian in Vegas.

What is your favorite movie?
The Notebook, Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (original)

What to do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Right now I enjoy doing things that I did before treatment. For example, I love going to new movies, and learning new things about my boyfriend when we are together. I didn’t get to do that for a long time.

If you could do anything in the world you would... spend every day in a different city of the world if I could with those I love. There’s so much to see and learn; it’s never ending.

I would also make sure that every needing patient gets the right care they need without the financial burden. I am very fortunate that things worked out for me, but I think it’s absolutely inhumane for someone to be refused treatment if they can’t afford it or to be piled with the bills for life. I would love for everyone to be worry-free of that, and have a successful recovery because seriously, having cancer is hard enough.

I really want to say my deepest thank you for everyone involved with TNT. I will be putting my new strength to the limits in the next few months, thinking of all that you have done, and perhaps in saving my life. Now let’s go train and fundraise!!!