My name is Nicole Pitesa and it’s official, I’m a marathon runner. I never would have imagined I would say that. I’m a lot of things: a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a co-worker. But now, I’m a marathon runner and I help save lives — and I’ve never been more proud.

My father was diagnosed with CLL in 2006 and each day since he teaches me that “life is too short to be little.” It was in his honor that I joined The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training for my first season in the Fall of 2008 and completed the Phoenix Rock “n” Roll marathon on January 18, 2009. It was an incredible experience from the first day of practice, where I learned how to choose a proper pair of running shoes to the very moment I crossed that finish line while my dad watched.

I couldn’t be more thrilled to continue with the team this season as a mentor. I can’t wait to help others experience the pride that I did and do still. Together we can continue to save lives…one mile at a time.