Running

Team In Training

BY DEMITRIA CASTANON

Barbara Saia first became associated with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society as a participant in the Maui Marathon in honor of her two friends that lost their lives because of blood related cancer. She quickly grew to realize that the only way to find a cure for cancer was to raise money for the research of the disease. And, as the the Senior Campaign Manager for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Team in Training (TNT) of the Central Coast, Saia is running strong towards finding a cure. Her fundraising efforts during the past eleven years have included one full marathon, and thirteen half marathons, in all of which she was also a participant.

The TNT Central Coast has raised over five million dollars and the TNT national account has raised over one billion dollars for blood related cancer patients and their families. From that money, the research programs supporting the cure for blood related cancers have been successful in discovering life-saving drugs such as Gleevec and Rituxan.

TNT offers walkers and runners the opportunity to take on a challenge of a marathon or half-marathon while making a positive difference in the lives of nearly one million Americans living with blood cancer. The local chapter comprises more than 100 participants, including students from Cal Poly and Cuesta, middle-aged adults, and seniors. Participants receive a personal training schedule, and meet each Saturday with the team and coach. During the first eight weeks, the members learn about everything from wearing the right shoes to eating properly, so by the time the event comes, the team is well prepared.

Joining the team for the Honolulu Marathon in 1998, the Cenoz family has a personal connection to the passionate fight against cancer. Jeniene and Jeff Cenoz’s son, Alex, was diagnosed with Leukemia at just three years old. He received treatment at Stanford Hospital and it was during their visits that they learned about Team In Training. Both Jeniene and Jeff instantly became eager to join. Since becoming involved, they have raised nearly $85,000 and have run a total of twenty-six races. Alex, who currently attends Arroyo Grande High School as a senior and plays on the varsity basketball team, will run in his first race at the 1st Annual SLO Half Marathon this year.

The environment of TNT, explains Saia is “very addicting! A lot of people come back because they like the support of the coaches, and the past participant mentors are awesome, and so involved. You are getting healthy and doing something for yourself, as well as supporting a great cause! We live in an amazing area where this works really well because people live healthy lifestyles, and they also want to give back and do something for the community. So Team In Training is a perfect fit for our area.” SLO LIFE TEAM CAPTAIN Barbara Saia is the Senior Campaign Manager for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society TNT

THRIVING Alex Cenoz has grown up with TNT and will participate in his first race this year