About TFAC

TriathlonForACure.com functions as a place to offer support to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation (GSF) and as a blog that will document my triathlon training and race schedule. By sharing my participation in the sport, I invite athletes and supporters to follow along my journey towards the Ironman Arizona triathlon this November.  In turn, I encourage you to find out more about the GSF and SMA and spread the word to others.

GSF was established by close friends of ours, Bill and Victoria Strong, after their daughter, Gwendolyn, who is the same age as our daughter, Reese, was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1. SMA is a degenerative and terminal disease that causes weakness and wasting of the voluntary muscles in infants and children. Average life expectancy of those diagnosed is less than two years. Bill and Victoria have become champions for SMA awareness by raising funds for research, providing support to other newly-diagnosed families, and establishing the GSF.  Their strength and determination is inspiring.

Ironman will be the most challenging race I’ve competed in: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run. Training has been rigorous, and I welcome advice, training tips, and encouragement to help ensure my race goes well.  My goal is to parallel the hard work and determination it takes to complete each triathlon with the hard work and determination it will take to eliminate SMA.  I am accepting sponsorships for the Ironman race and athletic gear will soon be available through the website, with all donations going directly to GSF.

Please take the time to read more about SMA and the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation. You can offer your support by signing the petition or donating to the foundation. I look forward to sharing my experiences in the sport and hearing from each of you along the way.

Sincerely,

Michael Jay Paskin