On Tuesday, Aug. 29, my 50th birthday, I'll be running 50 1-kilometer loops around Mercy Home for Boys & Girls (1140 West Jackson, Chicago) in an effort to raise $50,000 for our kids, many of whom will be running with me for part of the journey. The event will begin at 3 p.m.

Many of you know I had surgery on my Achilles on Nov. 29. My birthday is exactly nine months to the day after the surgery, which usually requires a 9 to 12 month recovery! My surgeon and PT gave me the green light to tackle this very tough challenge. In late May, I was only able to run for 1 minute with a 3-min recovery walk for eight reps. In three months, I will go from 8 minutes of running (a little over 1 km) to 50 kms.

Why am I doing this? My No. 1 reason is our kids. I want to be an example of what hard work and persistence can produce. I want them to see that the guy who was on crutches for nearly two months has overcome great obstacles to achieve something that might seem impossible. 

And I want to invite EVERYONE to join me. You don't have to run 50k (that's 31 miles, Americans). I will be doing a run/walk and you're welcome to do 1 lap or 50. Your presence will carry me through. And your financial support will provide hope and healing for kids in crisis. Many people have told me they want to do something about the violence in Chicago. This is your way to do just that. Your gift will truly change lives.  

Mercy Home provides residential care and mentoring for Chicago kids who come from backgrounds of poverty, abuse, and neglect. Since 1887, Mercy Home has helped more than 30,000 kids overcome painful pasts so they can rebuild their lives and realize their dreams. More info @ https://www.mercyhome.org.

I’m so grateful for your support, however you choose to show it, for Mercy Home’s kids!