We are a mere 4 days away from one of the biggest challenges I have ever taken in my life: the Marine Corps Marathon – 26.2 miles of sheer endurance and passion.
Many have asked me what is your reason for running. Well, a little boy named Ishan showed me courage I’d never seen before. He showed me perseverance to a level that moved me. He wanted nothing more then to make his parents proud. 
I remember a special July day in 2008 when we pulled into the parking lot of the Bronx Zoo. While all the other kids were running into the park our little Ishan looked up at us with eyes that always told a story. We knew he was weak from the chemo and all the impact that these treatments had on his body. But this brave little boy held my hand and walked to the gates of the Bronx Zoo. His wobbly little legs struggled for every step but continued with determination. He always made us proud.
As a father, that day has left an imprint on my heart like no other. I’m running to make Ishan proud. I know he will be looking down from heaven and rejoicing in yet another victory in “changing the future for children with cancer”.
I am also proud to be running with Team Curing Hand, my dear friends who have trained many months to be a part of this journey.
Even if you can’t be with us on the day of the marathon, you can be a part of the cause by donating to a runner, each of whom has committed to raising $1000 or more for IGF. No matter how much you give, it will make a difference in the life of a child. You can donate at www.firsgiving.org/igf you can search for a runner or if you make a general donation with the note “MCM” I will make sure it will go towards one of the runners.
Every runner on our team this year has overwhelmed me with their dedication to this cause. We will wear Ishan’s name proudly on our bright orange shirt as I know the 26.2 miles I will run will be nothing compared to the courage my angel to fight!
Many of you have asked for details on coming out to support the team as we run on Sunday so hopefully this message provides helpful information for each of you to navigate your way around the course and cheer for Team Curing Hand.
Our race shirts are bright orange, the color of Ishan’s handprint on the IGF website, with the Curing Hand logo in white on the front, so we’ll be hard to miss! 
Race starts at 8am on Route 110 just north of the Pentagon.
There are several key locations we suggest you pick to cheer us on from they are:
1. Key Bridge (MM4) – A short walk from the start line (if you go up the hill past the finish line and walk down N Lynn Street you will go be able to go all the way to the bridge) this is a great view as well as a great place to tell your runner “I’ll be on the bridge on the right hand side”
2. M Street/Georgetown (MM8.5-9) – Another ideal location, there are plenty of streets to stand along as you cheer the runners through. If you plan to cheer here don’t expect to get to see your runner again later on as you will have to either walk a mile or so along the course to the Lincoln Memorial (MM16) or return to the metro in Rosslyn or metro at Foggy Bottom (waits at both, I guarantee it)
3. Hains Point (MM12-14) This is (for the runners) the best place to cheer, it’s a little sticky to get to (you have to walk from either Smithsonian or up Ohio Drive – check the maps) but it’s worth the effort as runners are starting to feel the miles and love the encouragement. If you come here to cheer we recommend you proceed directly to the finish line upon departure
4. “The Mall” (MM 17-20) a bit of a zoo but if you pick a place along the course and stay there it’s a great atmosphere and fun to watch the runners. If you get the chance check out the elites, they are truly poetry in motion! Head directly to the finish from here
5. The Finish MILE – where we need you the most! Line Route 110 or up the hill to the monument we don’t care just scream loudly and help us finish that last mile OK? THANKS!
If you want to join other IGF supporters or have any questions about coming out to cheer or how to navigate the closed streets and crowded metro please reach out to board member Gretel Truong at 703-963-2215 for help. She will be onsite race day.
Just a few key things about raceday that will help make it a more successful event for you to participate in:
1. Bring brightly colored signs; it will help the team see you amongst the thousands of people on the sidelines.
2. Holler, cheer and clap for the runners but be mindful they may be racing for time and don’t be offended if they don’t stop (it’s possible they may not even hear you so just keep clapping as they go).
3. Bring snacks and water, metro lines will be long and you may get tired and thirsty.
4. Make sure your cell battery is charged.
5. Don’t forget your camera – we’d love to compile all the photos afterwards in an album!
Team Curing Hand Training
Most importantly, thank all of you for your continued support throughout this training season, it would not have been possible to accomplish what we have without you! Behind every great season is a network of family, friends and even strangers who make the goals reachable. As of the time of this message our team of 28 had raised $32,351.95!
Thanks again for the love, support, and prayers,
Mayank Gala
SPLASH! Come out and join us for our 3rd Annual Splash for a Cure – A Pool Party to Make a Difference on Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 5-9pm. The night will be filled with food, games, music, swimming, raffle prizes drawings, and loads of fun for all ages!
The Ishan Gala Foundation Blog 