For the past three months, Graeme Carlson, owner/pharmacist of Pharmasave Grand Forks, has been raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through the Team in Training program.
The Team in Training program trains individuals to complete endurance events such as marathons, half marathons, triathlons or cycle events.
As a result of joining Team in Training, as well as the significant funds he raised, Carlson qualified for the opportunity to participate in the Lavaman Waikoloa Triathlon in Hawaii on March 24. The triathlon consisted of a 1.5K swim; 40K bike and 10K run. In true “Carlson form,” he completed the triathlon with very respectable placements. He came in 303 out of 1,200 overall and 16 out of 49 in his age category. When it comes to the “Live Well with Pharmasave” slogan, it is without a doubt Carlson walks the walk and talks the talk.
The funds raised by the Team in Training program for this event are very impressive: Carlson raised over $6,500; a total of 21 athletes from the BC/Yukon Region raised $140,000 and over 400 athletes throughout North America raised over $2.4 million.
For Carlson, completing the triathlon is only a small part of the experience. “By far, the most rewarding aspect was being part of a team of individuals, from all walks of life, who are committed to raising funds to help beat blood cancers.”
Carlson is grateful to family and friends who have already contributed funds. There is still time to donate.
Carlson looks forward to the next fundraising effort.
– Submitted by Barbara Falk