As the world’s largest nonprofit fighting blood cancer, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) relies on its incredible fundraising campaigns to help support lifesaving research, patient support and education, and advocacy efforts that benefit blood cancer patients. Bob Cox of Marietta has announced that he will be raising funds for LLS’s iconic sports training program, Team In Training, and competing in the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii on October 12, 2019. Cox will be one of five Team In Training teammates competing in the spectacular Aloha State.

LLS’s Team In Training campaign continues to be the leading endurance and training program that raises funds through the delivery of a transformative experience that inspires and supports “teammates” through camaraderie, coaching, fundraising support and personal discovery. Since its inception, Team In Training has raised more than $1.5 billion for research and patient support, helping LLS invest in breakthrough cancer treatments that are changing the landscape of cancer.

The IRONMAN World Championship is one of the world’s most demanding athletic events – featuring a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run. Cox will join some of the most elite triathletes from around the world. In exchange for raising funds, Cox will receive eight months of training by Team In Training’s coaches who establish customized training regimens, provide advice on nutrition, hydration, injury prevention and more in order to complete the event.

Cox got involved with LLS to honor his mother, Alida, who is a survivor of both chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She has been battling cancer on and off since 1992, and has put up a tough fight.  Bob said, “Watching Mom endure so many rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and infusions has pushed me to give back a small amount compared to what she has sacrificed.” Today, Alida is in remission and is excited to see her son cross the Kona finish line.

Cox exclaimed, “I’m looking forward to the IRONMAN World Championships and the training journey to get there with Team In Training. What’s most exciting is not only do I get to be on the same course as the world’s top athletes, but more importantly, I’m supporting LLS’s goal to find cures for blood cancers and ensure that patients have access to lifesaving treatments. Research funded by LLS saved my mother’s life, and I am truly thankful.”