Change of plans

Dear editor:
More than a year ago, I joined the “Joints in Motion” training team to run a marathon on the Great Wall of China.
This is a fundraising event, sponsored by the Arthritis Society, whereby the participant picks a “hero” (someone who suffers from arthritis), raises a specified amount of money, and then runs a marathon on behalf of that “hero.”
In March of this year, I was notified that my application for a visitor’s visa to China had been turned down.
Thanks to the generosity of local resident, I already had exceeded my fundraising goal, but was informed by the society that these funds are not refundable.
They added I could transfer the amount raised to another training team within a two-year period and still participate. I looked through the upcoming run schedule and chose Gold Coast Australia in July, 2009.
This means I will have to raise an additional $3,700 by the deadline.
I just want to thank everyone who has helped out by donating so far, and to let them know their dollars are working hard to help discover medications, treatments, and aids for the more than 4.5 million Canadians who suffer from arthritis.
I also want to make others in the district aware that I will be continuing to fundraise towards my new goal of $9,700.
In the past four years with your generosity, I have raised more than $17,700 for the Arthritis Society, and will continue to support this great cause that affects so many of us locally.
Help to ease the pain and suffering.
Once again, thank you for your support.
(Signed), 
Bill Michl
Fort Frances, Ont.