Hi Everyone!

It has been a few months since I posted so I thought I would provide some recent updates.

Since I last posted, the following has happened in my “new normal”:

-I took a course and got certified as a member of the local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). CERT gets called upon to help their local community in cases of disasters and emergencies. Many times, CERT members may be the first to assist in a local emergency until the professional first responders arrive! I am looking forward to doing my part!

-I was an event coach for the San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon and Half Marathon for Team in Training. All the participants did awesome! It was a wonderful experience!

-I have begun training for the Chicago and Marine Corp Marathons which will both be in October. I am doing the Marine Corps Marathon for the 8th time for LLS through Team in Training program!

-I signed up to start my certified personal training course through NASM which begins this week. It is a 9 week program followed by a certification exam and some required shadowing of another CPT for a set number of hours for me to get my certification.

-I have been enjoying each day with my wife Carolyn, and my pets, (especially my awesome parrots)!

Also, let me give you a few updates on my Alports Syndrome condition:

-I had a follow-up test in May where they measured my blood to determine my exact kidney function. My kidney function has decreased from 33% in November to now at 29%.

-Based on this result, my Dr. Estimates I will most likely need a kidney transplant in less than 2 years but it will really depend upon my creatinine numbers and how I am feeling. So far, I STILL feel great with no noticeable impact on my physical condition! Actually, my Dr. has stated that I am probably one of his healthiest patients because of my marathon training and maintaining a high fitness level!

-The study nurse tells me that it is now uncertain if I will get access to the experimental drug to see if it will stop the destruction of the filtering membrane on my kidneys by the end of the year . It will really depend upon the criteria established by the testing Pharmaceutical company which has not been fully determined yet but will be before the end of the year. So, I will have to wait and see.

The good news:

-I have a loving wife and a wonderful daughter!

I have some amazing friends that are there for me!

-I still have my donor and back-up donors which is so amazing and selfless!

So, overall, I am very  optimistic!

In the meantime, I am enjoying my “new normal” ! I will also make sure that I continue to do the things that I am most passionate about and love! After all, you need to live each day to it’s fullest!

Until next time,

Gratefully yours,

I WILL NEVER QUIT!!

Gary