Steve Withington
Freeport, IL
Fundraising Goal: $500.00 | Total Raised: $690.00
Shortly after becoming the lead web developer for Ignition Studio in early 2007, I was introduced to one of our clients, Bob Swaback and Mitchell Swaback Charities. I don't care who you are, or what your background is...if all you do is read the story of Bob and Gaye's son Mitch and why this organization even exists today...you can't help but be inspired. If you continue to read his journal entries, the testimonials, and the lives that have been touched by this group, you will be moved. I've watched from the sidelines; posting story after story, reading everyones comments, posting new projects, events, and all of the updates, pictures and videos that go along with them. I've attended the annual golf outings and dinners and listened as friends and family shared their memories of Mitch. I've helped put together the monthly e-blasts...and yes, even the ones on Mitch's Anniversary.
Isn't it beautiful though, to see all of the great things that have been done with the loss of this young man? It's painful...and beautiful...all at the same time.
However, the impetus for me to run the half marathon this year goes back to that first year I became involved. In 2007, MSC had a similar fundraiser where several people signed up to run either the half of full marathon in Chicago. Mitch's dad, Bob, committed to running both! Together, they raised nearly $100,000 that year. At that time, I was nearly sixty pounds heavier and wouldn't have been able to run around the block without taking a break...trust me, I tried. I told my coworkers at Ignition Studio that if MSC would do this fundraiser again, I would run...well, here I am.
I might not be ready to run the full thirteen miles yet, but with the help of my son Parker, my daugher Meredith and all of my family, friends and supporters....I'm gonna run...one step at a time.
Sponsors
Troy Pullis • $20.00
Good luck on your run and fundraising!Bob and Gaye Swaback • $100.00
Steve - Thanks for running for MSC we'll be cheering you onAnonymous • $20.00
Running is exhilarating and even better running for a cause. Have fun, AllanKate Sullivan • $100.00
you've totally got this and I am so proud of you!Kristen Cooke • $20.00
So awesome you are running in this!!! Best of Luck and my loudest cheers to you!!Barbara Runge • $50.00
Hope you're able to run with that knee, but if not just take care of yourself!John Withington & Family • $50.00
Have fun running, and take care of your knee bro!Love,
JJ, Naomi, Caleb, Joel & Lynn
Ignition Studio • $200.00
Good luck, Steve!Scott Slone • $50.00
Just to put you that much more over your goal. Have an awesome run.Joanna Pennington • $10.00
Have fun!Kristin Brandt • $20.00
I believe in you! I know injuries are hard and you have been fighting through yours and I admire you for that. I will be praying for safe travels, safe running, and most importantly fun!Meredith Withington • $25.00
Good luck on your run Daddy...I'll see you when you get home! I love you Daddy!Parker Withington • $25.00
Good luck on your run Dad! I love you!!Thank you for your support. Mitchell Swaback Charities is a non-profit organization, exempt from federal income under section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Service code.
IRS Letter of Determination (.pdf, 393Kb)
If you have any comments or questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Comments
Well said Steve! I think it is awesome that you are running... I may not be on the sidelines, but I will be cheering you on in my heart. Good luck!!!
- Posted By Jaci Martinez | April 20, 2011, 11:34 AM
Steve - Thanks for sharing your story I'm sure you'll do just fine. I'm looking forward to running with you.
- Posted By Bob Swaback | April 27, 2011, 7:42 PM