Monday, March 11, 2013

Team Purple Spotlight: TNT staff, Amanda Yancey, trains for a cure!

Amanda Yancey is a warrior for LLS both on and off the clock. Not only is she a Team In Training Campaign Manager, but she has now signed up to complete her second TNT event as a participant – talk about practicing what she preaches! Amanda is currently training for the ELEVEN Lake Oconee Olympic distance triathlon taking place in May, her first ever triathlon. We recently caught up with Amanda amidst all of her swimming, biking, and running to learn more about her commitment to LLS.



What is your athletic background? Have you ever done one of these events before?

I completed my first ever endurance event as a TNT participant last June by doing the Mayor’s Marathon in Anchorage, AK. It was quite a challenge but extremely rewarding.

Have you ever fundraised before? Are you nervous?

I first got involved with LLS when I joined Light The Night in 2009 to honor my best friend, Megan, an AML survivor. Since then I have raised over $8,000 for LLS and have a personal goal to hit $10,000 this season by completing the ELEVEN Lake Oconee Triathlon.

What motivated you to sign up?

The mission. Ultimately, the LLS mission to cure all blood cancers and to improve the quality of life for our patients and their families continues to be my number one motivation. I have witnessed how destructive blood cancer is and I want to do my part in the fight for a CURE. A friend from college and Lymphoma survivor, Jason, also motivated me to sign up this season. This training challenge is nothing compared to the chemo, radiation and treatment side effects that he has endured along the way.

How long have you been with LLS?

2 years this month!

What is your favorite aspect of being a TNT participant?

Being on staff with Team In Training, I have the opportunity to work with amazing volunteers and blood cancer survivors that continuously dedicate their time and energy to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I love having the opportunity to be a fellow teammate and to train by their side towards the same great cause.

What are your goals for the season?

To cross the finish line in this Olympic triathlon and to surpass my fundraising goal for the Society!

Way to go Amanda !