The Rocket City Marathon in Huntsville, Ala., was my first ever. I was inspired to do it because of my cousin's battle with cancer.

Gwen Henderson of Hattiesburg died of leukemia, but her spirit lives on in me. I wanted to take the challenge of distance running to improve my own health. I have glaucoma.

I was able to complete the more than 26-mile marathon last Saturday, which was my goal.

Those who gave donations, which exceeded $5,500, through the Community Foundation of East Mississippi are helping cover things that insurance doesn't, such as transportation costs. The money is administered through Anderson Cancer Center's benevolence fund.