After hearing cancer survivor and Tulsa fireman John Buck's story, how could I say no to this push up challenge? Like most middle-aged mother of 2 teens, I would have to say that upper body strength is not in my top 10 things to improve this year. However, after starting a women's fitness boot camp class 4 weeks ago, I knew I could incorporate John's push up challenge into my routine.
Do I love push ups? NO! They are hard; I don't see immediate results right after I do them; Sometimes my drill sergeant, oops, I mean fitness instructor, has me doing so many combos of them, I get sick to my stomach. At the end of each session, I always think "I can't do any more!"
Then I think of John going through his battle with cancer last year and I realize my little struggle with pushups is nothing compared to what he went through. His treatment was hard, no immediate results, and caused many days of sickness. John didn't give up, so I won't give up either. Pushing onward and Pushing upward!
I am seeking sponsors to join me in this challenge. You can sponsor me by pledging a penny, dime, quarter, or $1.00 per push I completed. The challenge began on Feb 15th and ends April 5th. 50 days of push ups representing 50 days of John's treatments.
Before you make your pledge, just know that I can now do about 240 pushups a week! You do the math. :)
You can email me with your push up pledge, or join me and get sponsors to pledge money for you doing pushups. All proceeds benefit families facing a medical crisis away from home at Hospitality House of Tulsa. For more information go to www.tulsahospitalityhouse.org/events.htm Thanks for your support!

Half a Hundred for Hospitality Challenge

Guest Blogger: John Buck

Just over a year ago, I was diagnosed with a rare form of head and neck cancer. My wife and I sought treatment out of state. My treatment required that we relocate about 500 miles away from home for weeks on end. Without the support and the sacrifice of our family, our friends, and our Tulsa Fire Department family, my fifty days of active treatment would have been infinitely more difficult. The compassion and hospitality of others enabled us to receive the care we needed.

The Hospitality House of Tulsa is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that offers families a ‘home away from home’ while enduring a medical crisis. I have found the same compassion and generosity that supported me during my battle with cancer is the very foundation of this organization. I am inspired to help them provide hope and comfort to others facing medical adversities.

Here is how you can help. Commit to doing push-ups for fifty consecutive days beginning February 15th and ending April 5th. Please find sponsors to donate a penny, nickel, dime, quarter, or dollar per push-up. All of your tax-exempt proceeds will benefit Hospitality House of Tulsa and will go directly to helping individuals and their families as they seek medical treatment in our city. Click here to download the Half a Hundred for Hospitality form.

Win the Fight,
John Buck