The Meaning of Team Marissa

Originally when I heard about Team Marissa participating in the NK5K, I thought, sure, this is a great way to show support to a family that I have loved for many years.

Team Marissa was formed in honor of my friend's oldest child, Marissa Hayward, who passed away last year on 10-10-10.

Sounds like a pretty simple and basic idea, plus you get to visit with people you don't often see, spend some time with your Momma, get your jog in for the day, and get a new T-Shirt.

Win all the way around.

However, I have done a ton more thinking about Team Marissa recently. It means so much more to me than just supporting some folks that are so strong and good that you feel sunshine coming directly from them and into you whenever you see them, hug them, or even think of them.

I recalled sitting at the memorial for Marissa with my mother last year, and hearing all the stories of Marissa, a very energetic and individualistic, fun person. That led me to recall all the fun times I had with her mom and all of our high school friends years ago.

Team Marissa means that you should be happy to be who you are, live life to the fullest, expend your energy for good purposes. Be strong for yourself, and you will pass that strength on to others. And this is the hardest one for me: be sure to let the people that you love and value how much they mean to you. Time is fleeting, so make it count.

I'm pretty sure the over 100 members of Team Marissa, that are gathered in this picture, as well as those all over the country that joined the Team in their own areas of the USA, agree with me.

I am a Putnamaniac because I know the true meaning of Team Marissa!