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Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Give LIVESTRONG A Chance...



   After killing myself today at the gym running speed intervals I thought it would be nice to treat myself to some shopping at one of my favorite sports stores, Dick's. Last year I fell in love with a pair of fleece Nike training gloves I bought there. They have seen a lot of use lately because I am now running outside more to keep the project going. Time to replace them.
   I know everyone is sick and tired of hearing about the whole Lance Armstrong thing. Me included. But, as I perused the enticing athletic wear on the racks I discovered something that got my Irish blood boiling a little bit. EVERY piece of gear emblazoned with the Livestrong logo was marked down and on sale. I had my suspicions why and hunted down an employee to confirm them. Mr. Employee stated, "At this time Dick's is choosing to phase out all of it's Livestrong products due to the negative publicity regarding the Lance Armstrong doping scandal." Really? The negative publicity? Last time I checked good old Lance stepped down from the company. A company that I've chosen to support since it's inception. When I was 16 years old my father died of brain cancer. Horrible nasty stuff that came at just the wrong time in my life. But, I dealt with it the best that I could. Over the years I have used that horrible event in my life to follow in the family profession of law enforcement, become a runner, complete numerous races including ten marathons and to become the best father that I could be. I have also become a huge supporter of such groups as Livestrong. I wear the bracelet and donate every year for the best man that I have ever know, dad. If Dick's wants to get all high up on that podium maybe they should reconsider carrying Nike products as well. Don't even get me started on them!  
   My whole point is this, don't knock such an amazing organization that has done so many positive things! Lance did a lot of terrible things and hurt a lot of people with his lies. Last year I discovered that Lance and I shared something in common, cancer. All my years of foolishly running in the sunshine without sunscreen or a shirt had caught up with me. Luckily, my skin cancer was removed without a problem and has not been seen since. I am not saying that Lance should not be held accountable for his actions. Of course he should! What I am saying is that the rest of the world shouldn't bash Livestrong for his actions.
   I will continue to wear my bracelet, donate and now own a nice pair of Livestrong fleece gloves just like my old Nike pair. Run for your life my friends and LIVESTRONG!

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