By Wendy Ballard

The infamous purple jersey is hard to miss. The spirit of those sporting the jersey is infectious. These days, any road race event you attend, you are pretty much guaranteed to see an influx of purple. The proud wearer's of the purple are part of the world's largest endurance sports training program, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training. The program, which began in 1988, helps to raise funds for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma research and patient services.

The program provides training to participate in marathons, half marathons, triathlons and century 100 mile bike rides. Those who participate, receive personalized fitness training by certified coaches as well as the added support of teammates. In exchange for training and support, participants raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. As part of the fundraising program, lodging and airfare are provided to more than 60 accredited events in the US and abroad once specified funds are raised. Since 1988, more than 360,000 volunteer participants have helped raise more than 850 million dollars for the society.

Two local Charleston residents have signed up for the challenge. Suzi Quinn and Melanie Branham have signed up to walk the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon on June 1st. Both Suzi and Melanie lost loved ones due to complications with cancer. According to Suzi, "this opportunity has given us both a chance to make a difference and help strengthen the fight against this awful disease."

Both walk on their own 3 days a week walking about 4 miles at a time. Their long walks are reserved for Sundays with the local Charleston Team in Training chapter. The Rock and Roll Marathon will be their first marathon. Both have set a goal to finish within the allotted seven hours.

Anyone interested in finding our more about this wonderful organization can go to www.teamintraining.org. Whether you interested in participating or just donating to the cause, all information can be found on the website listed. Good luck to Suzi and Melanie! You serve as an inspiration to us all.