Kathy Frederick is a fifty-eight year old mother of two that gave up the life she knew in order to follow her dreams of being a dog musher. My name is Leslie Morgan and I found out about Kathy’s journey two months ago. Her story captured my heart and when I found out she needed a three month volunteer to assist her while she trains for the 2010 Iditarod, I knew I wanted to be part of her journey.

The Iditarod is known as the last great race on earth. A 1150- mile sled dog mushing competition that runs from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska. The race encompasses veteran and rookie racers both young and old alike to try and battle the harsh Alaskan elements. There will be one winner out of seventy one competitors and only 1/3 will actually make it across the finish line.

While in Alaska I will be assisting her with her dogs, her home, documenting her training sessions as well as talking to her neighbors, mentors and family to gain a better perspective into Kathy and whether they think she has a chance to succeed. I will also be meeting some veteran competitors of the Iditarod to speak to them about the differences that a rookie competitor can face on the trails.

I am currently raising funds to get to three checkpoints on the Iditarod trail and to get to the end of the race so I can meet Kathy in Nome, which will cost a total of $2000. I am trying to raise the funds in the next two weeks time.

Kathy’s story is one that will resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds as her story proves that nothing should stop you from following your dreams and what you know is meant to be.