It takes a certain amount of grit to decide at 68 years old to start running again after a 50-year hiatus. In my younger days, I was a sprinter—I knew how to handle 400 or 800 meters. But 26.2 miles? That is a different world.

Why take this on now? Because I’m not just running for myself.

Growing up in a Navy family, I saw firsthand the strength of the military community. I was one of the lucky ones; my father always came home safe. But some of my childhood playmates and neighbors weren't as fortunate. I am running the Marine Corps Marathon to honor my father, Capt. Theodore Lloyd, USN, and to support the families who gave so much.

I’ve joined Team Semper Fi & America’s Fund because their mission to support wounded veterans and their families is vital. Every mile I train for, and every dollar we raise, goes directly to those who have sacrificed for our country.

Please consider supporting my journey with a donation. Together, we can provide critical assistance to our veterans and their families.

Thank you for your donation!

Semper Fi & America’s Fund cares for our Nation’s critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and military families. Supporting all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, we provide one-on-one case management, connection, and lifetime support. Today. Tomorrow. Together.

• Semper Fi & America’s Fund is A+ rated from CharityWatch — their highest rating.

• Semper Fi & America’s Fund ensures our combat wounded, critically ill, and catastrophically injured U.S. service members and military families experience the appreciation and respect of our supporters. Our warriors and their families will achieve the highest possible quality of life and independence in a loving, caring, and committed community and will not be forgotten on their road to recovery and beyond.

• Semper Fi & America’s Fund manages and operates diverse, comprehensive programs in the areas of Service Member and Family Support, Transition, and Integrative Wellness through a “needs-based” approach. All grants are delivered through a one-on-one case management relationship, the result of which is life-changing and lifesaving.

• Semper Fi & America’s Fund employs a powerful holistic approach, integrating physical, mental, and emotional recovery through powerful therapies and innovative technologies, which most often leads to both healing and post-traumatic growth.

• To date, Semper Fi & America’s Fund has provided ongoing assistance to over 37,000 service members, veterans, and military families.

Thank you for supporting Semper Fi & America's Fund and for helping those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom!