10 Feb 2010 No Comments
Boston Marathon Spotlight: Susana Hodgers for Team Brigham
FirstGiving is located in Boston, home of both the Boston Marathon and chilly winters. Susana Hodgers has decided to brave both for the first time – she’s never run a marathon, and she’s also never experienced a New England winter!
Susana is raising money online for Brigham and Women’s Hospital to help fund breast cancer-related community health programs. This cause, and the opportunity to be a part of a supportive team of friends and training buddies, have inspired her to power through the twin challenges of winter and a marathon. Susana also has a great tip for prospective fundraisers – and an incredible story of community support.
FirstGiving: Why did you decide to run the Boston Marathon?
Susana: I have to pinpoint my true dedication to the Falmouth Road Race I attended this past summer. It was so exciting – seeing all the runners, all the nonprofits, and all the support. It opened my mind to running for a cause. Then my friend Molly MacDonald, who is also running, approached me and my roommate with the idea of running our first marathon together and for a reason. It was an opportunity I could not pass up – run and train with friends, participate in a world famous marathon, and raise funds for those in need.
FirstGiving: What is the best thing about being on Team Brigham?
Susana: The cause, for one, and the ease of training because of Team Brigham’s organization and strong communication skills. It has made training so easy and our team coordinator is very helpful with questions and concerns.
FirstGiving: In addition to donating to your page, how have people supported you in your efforts?
Susana: We are hosting an event on February 25th. Several companies have donated their services to our raffle, and the venue, the Grand Canal, has donated their bar. Bearfight’s Chris Mathison has also contributed his talent at no charge to us.
FirstGiving: What is your best fundraising tip?
Susana: Ask everyone and expect to receive a few rejections. You never know until you ask so why not?
FirstGiving: What has been the most difficult thing so far?
Susana: The cold – I am a Californian and this is my first winter EVER! So needless to say, I have had some adjusting to do. However, knowing that I am running with friends keeps me motivated, and that once I accomplish that week’s goal, I can go on with the weekend feeling great both internally and externally.
We are all going to face tough challenges in our fundraising – weather, training setbacks, rejections – but as Susana has shown, the best thing you can do is to keep at it. Perseverance is the key to success both in fundraising and in training. Good luck, Susana, and keep warm! We’ve made a donation to your page in support of your efforts.
