My reason for walking or running this year is deeply personal. In 2001, my older sister Loree M. Lula Negrete lost her battle with leukemia. She was only 31 years old and was scheduled to receive a bone marrow transplant in just two weeks. As her matching donor, I had hoped to save her life. Unfortunately, that was not meant to be.

In the years since Loree’s passing, I have felt a strong urge to honor her memory by doing something to help those still battling this deadly disease. Despite being unable to save my sister, I know that we can make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why we formed Team Loree and are participating in this year’s race with the goal of raising funds to help those in need.

I am proud to be supporting the ABC7 Gibbons Run and the Leukemia Research Foundation, knowing that every dollar raised moves us one-step closer to a cure. I hope that by fundraising and spreading awareness, we can ensure that no one ever has to suffer the same pain and heartbreak that my family did.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to seeing you at the race.

~ Daniel N. and Team Loree

(Note: Loree and her daughters, Abri (left) and Nina (right), are included in the featured picture.)