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| John Guandolo - Founder, Destination Cure |
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A Message from John Guandolo Founder - Destination Cure The beginnings of Destination Cure – The Race Against MS were simply conceived. When I was two years old, my mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). In about 1968 she began having trouble balancing, then walking. She went from crutches to a walker to a wheel chair in just a few years. She was thirty years old. Witnessing the impact on her, physically, emotionally, and personally, was difficult and disheartening. However, she did not view her life that way. She maintained a strength of character and an unshakable faith that continue to inspire all who knew her. She was a strong woman and mother, who, although limited physically, left an indelible mark on her two sons about how we should live our lives. Never quit, never lose hope, and live life for all it is worth. By the time I was ten years old, mom had to be moved into a nursing home in Potomac, Maryland. We could no longer care for her without professional assistance. Through the twenty-four years she spent at that place, she maintained her zeal for life, her faith, and an inner happiness that boiled over whenever we visited. My mom died in September of 2000, two months before I, and eight other individuals, competed in Ironman Florida, and raised $40,000 for Destination Cure. Mom’s spirit carried me through that day. My mom left all of us who knew her with some inspirational tones to help us live life with the grace and hope that helped her through her own painful and unyielding ordeal: Live do not exist. Make a difference in your life and the lives of others. No matter what your circumstances, look up towards the light and forward towards better days, and do not dwell in self-pity and become mired in your misfortunes. Seek and find the greatness inside you and thrive. Stop whining about daily troubles and act on your dreams. Remember there is no pain too great you cannot endure. Grab life with intensity and enthusiasm, and live and love with no bounds. It is with this sense of commitment and intensity I sought to do something lasting for my mom and others like her. Being an athletic type, I wanted to use races as a means to accomplish my goal. However, I did not just want to raise money; I wanted to raise money for research for a cure for MS, so no one else would have to deal with this dreaded disease. Beginning this endeavor in 1998, figuring out all the logistics and administrative matters along the way, I wanted a pure fund-raising organization dedicated to a powerful mission. Our mission is simple: “Empower anyone anywhere to raise money and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis research.” Too many people with MS need a strong voice - we are that voice. Born on the strength and motivation of one woman, Destination Cure was founded. I want – need – to do something lasting for my mother and the millions of others who continue to suffer the ravages of MS. Unlike any other similar non-profit organization, 100% of all monetary donations goes directly to support MS research. This is not a lofty goal, it is our creed! I challenge each and every one of you to commit yourselves to our mission. Donate. Volunteer. Participate. Join Us! Make a difference in your life and the lives of others today!
John Guandolo is a 1989 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, a former Infantry and Reconnaissance Officer in the United States Marine Corps, and currently works for the federal government in Washington, D.C. |
