Hello Friends!!
My positive experiences with Team Illinois as an organ transplant recipient athlete at the 2008 U.S. Transplant Games last July was truly rewarding and stimulating, thanks to the never-ending support and encouragement of wonderful people like you. I continue to strive to give 100% to everything I do, to maintain strength in my faith, give service to others, conquer my fears, and experience pure joy in witnessing my teammates excel at sport and life! Today, I ask if you will help me reach my goal.
This August, I have the most amazing opportunity to represent TEAM USA by competing at the World Transplant Games on the Gold Coast of Australia. I will be in the company of nearly 3,000 athletes from more than 70 countries that will converge on the Gold Coast to compete in 12 Olympic style events that display the positive effects of transplantation and raise awareness of the critical shortage of organs for transplant- to the world. Last summer I was blessed to represent Team Illinois in the U.S. Transplant Games in Pittsburgh, PA., where I competed in the 1500 meter racewalk at Carnegie Mellon University. I am proud to have placed 4th in this event, missing Bronze by a mere 13 seconds- though breaking my own personal record by almost a full minute! Now I am training to compete in the 3000 meter Racewalk event in Australia and also getting a stamp on my passport! J As exciting as this may be, it pales in comparison to the awareness raised for organ and tissue donation, which is the purpose of the World Transplant Games. Media coverage world-wide will highlight the success of organ and tissue donation in hopes of giving many more patients a second chance at life. Currently, there over 100,000 people in the U.S. waiting for a lifesaving transplants- I was truly blessed to receive this lifesaving gift of life when I received a liver transplant just over two years ago. I am truly thankful to be alive and healthy enough to pay honor to my donor for this selfless gift, by competing in the World Transplant Games this summer.
You have been a source of strength by supporting my family and I throughout my transplant experience and recuperation, for which I am eternally grateful. I am asking for your continued support over the next 8 months during my training- to stay healthy and injury free. Also, given the state of the economy, there will be financial strain on many team members to attend. I’m hoping for support through generous sponsors to offset the costs of travel so I’m able to train and compete under less stress.
Check here for updates and photos. I’m so blessed to be granted the opportunity to represent our country in Australia this August. I am thrilled and honored to share my experiences with you!
Thank you for taking the time to support me! I am proud to have you as part of “Team LadyLoveliver” by giving me financial support today. If you are led to become a sponsor I will be very grateful, and will make you and Team USA proud by giving 110% in Australia, with the intent of bringing home the Gold!
Thankful every day & (race) walkin’ to honor the gift of life!
Colette
**Yes I would like to support your goal to send you to the World Transplant Games in Australia but I cannot attend the Bowling fundraising event. The total expense of airfare, lodging and Team USA Entry Fees are $2,500. Please use my gift of _____________________________ to help offset the cost of travel and participation for me, Colette Jordan, as I represent TEAM USA & the World Elite Team at the World Transplant Games in Australia, August 19 – August 30, 2009.
Please send your gift of monetary support to:
Colette Jordan
TEAM USA 4504 Dorset Ave. Lisle, IL. 60532
