Bellingham's Blandin Plans to Run 26 Marathons in 12 Months For IBD
Bellingham resident Marc Blandin plans to run 26 marathons in the next 12 months to fund a cure for a painful and debilitating disease. Marc has joined his friend at the Team Challenge training for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation after being inspired by the qualities of the team. He was amazed by the perseverance and positivity demonstrated by everyone he met suffering from IBD, Crohn’s or Colitis, and though Marc had no connection to the disease at the time, he was instantly hooked.
“Running 26 marathons for 26 IBD warriors in one year is a challenge and I’m excited to run for those who battle these diseases every day. Being recognized by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is a true honor. I couldn’t do it without the tremendous amount of support and encouragement I’ve been getting.”
In 2010, Marc became a Team Challenge trainer. “I wasn’t sure how I’d be accepted because I had no affiliation to the disease. Boy I was wrong. Everyone was even more appreciative and accepting of me because I’d taken the time to help them,” Marc says. “To see their determination and struggles with this disease and not let it control their lives is incredible.”
Ironically, in 2013, Marc’s father was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Thanks to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Marc was able to turn to his new network of friends and doctors to ensure his father received the support he needed. In 2016, Marc decided to run two marathons in 20 days to raise money for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. He wanted to do more. This year, Marc created “26.2 For You.” With fundraising efforts all directed to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Marc plans to run 26 marathons over the next year, sharing stories of friends he has met along the way who are battling the disease.
On Thursday, June 14th, Marc Blandin was honored as the Rising Volunteer of the Year at the 2018 Night in White for the Cure Event. The exclusive event was held at the New England Aquarium. Attendees dressed in white joined Marc in the outdoor tent and terrace on the harbor for a night of food, live music and inspirational speeches.
To find out more about Marc Blandin's goals, visit www.26point2foryou.com.
