A Wonderful Inspiration for 2012

Amanda Kern has her own inspiration, her son Chance. But we believe that if you read her heartfelt New Year's Eve blog, you will be inspired to make a commitment to enhance the lives of those affected with Spina Bifida in 2012. Below are excerpts from her blog. To read the full post, visit http://www.amandakern.com/blog/.

"We're only hours away from celebrating a new year. The year has been a roller coaster full of ups and downs and I can't help but be hopeful for beginning a new year. This year has challenged me and my family in ways I never thought possible. And now as 2012 approaches, I find myself gearing up to join "Team Spina Bifida." In 2012 I vow to find it in myself to run a half-marathon in support of my baby boy and all those that have been affected by Spina Bifida.

Endurance is defined as "the ability or strength to continue or last, especially despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions," and as I think of my baby boy I think of how much he has had to endure in just the first ten months of his life. He's gone through 11 surgeries. He's spent more than a month of his life in the hospital. He's now beginning to require physical therapy to help him with his mobility. His future is so promising…yet, I know it is uncertain what challenges he may have ahead. I am so optimistic but I realize our family must endure the challenges his Spina Bifida may bring to his life.

Yes, I am ending the year and ready to begin a new year and support my baby boy and all the others out there affected by Spina Bifida by running a half marathon this year. Call me crazy if you like…but I think about my baby boy and if he can endure so much just in his first year of life…I can endure running 13.1 miles along with the hundreds of miles I'll likely run training for it. Perhaps along the way I might be able to once again do some good and help create some awareness for Spina Bifida. I will not give up…just like I'll never give up on my baby boy."

If you would like to join Amanda at the Kentucky Derby Festival Half Marathon on April 28, 2012, or register for another event through Team Spina Bifida, or support one of the Team Spina Bifida members with a charitable contribution, please visit our Web site at www.teamspinabifida.org.