I wrote this post a few weeks ago, but thanks to a very flaky internet connection in my room here in Baghdad, it was lost. So here goes again.

In just under three weeks time, I'll turn 40. In recognition of the event, I'll be running 40 miles (64.5km). Just something that seemed like a good idea at the beginning of the year and gives me something positive to focus on while here in Iraq.

Training here in Iraq has been pretty good. Luckily I have a job here where I can spend a bit of time every day running. And I do have an understanding boss, who will allow me to have the day off to run the 40 miles. It will be my only day off during this six month tour.

My build through the summer has been interesting. My long runs have started between 8-9pm when it's cooler, meaning that the mercury is on its way down, only being 104-107F at that time. And some nights it actually cools down a bit more during the run. Nothing like running a 21-miler in greater than 100F temps. But at least it's a dry heat!

During one of my long runs, I realized how lucky I am to be healthy enough to do what I do, where I'm doing it and with the support of co-workers, family and friends. And I thought about the many that leave this country in health that's much worse than mine. While they have the support of their co-workers, family and friends, their physical state puts a significant amount of stress on them and their support structure.

So I decided to make this run more significant than just me. I'll run 40 miles and be able to think back on it throughout my life. But it's now not just about that. It's now about helping those that serve.

I've set up a page to provide donations to the Fisher House. For those of you who don't know, the Fisher House is similar to a Ronald McDonald House, except the houses are for military families watching over their service member who has been wounded or is gravely ill.

While I know there are many, many worthy charities out there, this one hits very close to home for me. Stationed on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, we have a Fisher House right on post that is very, very busy. Much too busy for my taste. And we've had neighbors return from Iraq and Afghanistan who've had to make use of Fisher House facilities around the country.

So please visit my donation page, read a bit more about what the Fisher House does for those that serve, and please consider giving whatever amount you are comfortable with.


Bill Anders' Fisher House Donation Page



Thank you!
-bill