Skip was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in 2004.  In 2006, Skip and his daughter Karen trained for a marathon with Team In Training. 

"That spring, my daughter Karen discovered TNT and signed up for the University of Washington Medical Center Seattle Marathon in my honor.  When she told me about walking a half marathon, it sounded like a fun thing to do.  I could certainly use the exercise and wanted to spend more time her. Training every Saturday and during the week was a big commitment but well worth it. The team captain, coaches and mentors were so supportive and encouraging.  Little did we know what a strong supportive bond would be formed with our fellow teammates.

Training was going well into mid summer. Like the temperature in July, my lymphocyte count was climbing.  I would soon begin four sessions of chemotherapy. I started my first round of treatment in July, five days in a row, Monday through Friday with three weeks off between rounds. My fourth and final treatment was in October.

In November my daughter and I finished the University of Washington Medical Center Seattle Marathon with thankful hearts and smiles. Karen finished well before me. As I approached the corner of the stadium (with about an eighth of a mile to go to the finish line) I received warm hugs from cheering coaches, mentors and staff.  What a welcome sight. I think I might have set a new record, crossing the finishing in 8:49:37! Coach Brent and his wife Shelley walked with me from the start, in pouring rain and snow, to the finish line. Now that is true dedication from our team leaders!"