After her heart attack in September 2001, Paula was determined to keep in shape and keep healthy. She joined the Team in Training program of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and began a program of walking. Starting at only one mile in the summer of 2002, she gradually increased her distance and time until she was able to complete 13.1 miles, a half marathon, in under 3 1/2 hours - about 16 minutes per mile.

     While training for her first event, she raised over $6,700 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to help them continue the research into new cures for these dreaded diseases. Since then she has raised additonal thousands of dollars and completed half-marathons in Chicago, Nashville, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco, Vancouver, British Columbia, and in Virginia Beach, Virginia (to name a few). She even completed the full Marine Corps Marathon, 26.2 miles, on October 30, 2005 and said "never again". But she continues to walk 10 Ks (about 6 mile races)!

     We congratulate Paula, and know the wonderful medals she has received will be treasures for years to come!