Team Save Your Skin to run the ‘D-Day 44 Challenge’ on the 75^th anniversary of D-Day

 “I have been fortunate to wear my Team Save Your Skin jersey in many amazing races around the world, but none more meaningful than the D-Day 44 Challenge, a unique 44-mile run that commemorates the 1944 Allied invasion of occupied Europe.”

On June 6th, 2019, the 75th anniversary of D-Day, I will be running the beaches of Normandy.  There are 2 events planned on this day, a 44-mile run, which starts at Point du Hoc, then hugs the coastline of Normandy along the beaches, Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, ultimately ending at Pegasus Bridge, and a 22-mile walk, which will stretch from Juno Beach to Pegasus Bridge.  As I tackle the 44-mile run, I am really pleased that my husband Tom, a long-time supporter of Save Your Skin Foundation, will be taking on the 22-mile walk. 

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The cause

Tom and I have both been very lucky in our lives, surrounded by good family and friends, and even more importantly good health.  Not everyone we know has been so fortunate. 

When my sister Kathy was diagnosed with late stage melanoma back in 2003, it was shattering.  We were petrified that we would lose her, but miracles do happen, and although it has been an uphill battle she is still with us today.  Kathy has always been an amazing person, very thoughtful, giving and strong, both mentally and physically.  It is these qualities that have kept her going through her battle with melanoma, and these same qualities that she now calls upon to help anyone else struggling with this cruel form of cancer, through Save Your Skin Foundation.

I understand that running 44 miles (71 km) will be a challenge, but I am also humbled every single day by people dealing with real challenges, challenges they did not choose. Like taking on a life-threatening disease, or bravely running onto a beach, miles from home into enemy fire, sacrificing everything for the safety of others.

Fundraising

So friends, at this time I am reaching out to ask for a small donation. Through this event we are hoping to raise funds for Save Your Skin Foundation, which provides emotional and financial support to those dealing with melanoma. 

Also, in support of the organizers of this amazing event, my family will be contributing to the Blesma Foundation, a British organization that supports veterans who have lost limbs, their eyesight, or are struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder. 

I thank you in advance for your support,

- Rosemary Westie

To read more about this event and Save Your Skin Foundation, please click HERE.