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In December 1993, Ann Hollier’s life changed forever. Diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia a few weeks before the holidays, Hollier successfully fought the illness over the next 18 months. Last year, she celebrated that victory with another major feat – running the Anchorage Midnight Sun Marathon.
Through her sister, Hollier found out about Team In Training (TNT) – which provides training and support for those participating in long distance sports to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “I had always wanted to do something to give back to those who saved my life,” said Hollier of her decision to follow in her sister’s footsteps with her own marathon run.
The marathon, held on the summer solstice, was a challenge for Hollier, but she had trained hard and finished the race. “The experience was amazing, and I met so many runners who had a family member or neighbor or even a student in their class battling leukemia,” she recalled.
Although Hollier does not have any plans to run another marathon, she does provide support and encouragement for those who do. She is also practicing as a life coach for cancer patients and survivors, based on her own experience. “I’m researching the role of mind/body practices in cancer treatment,” she said. “There is a lot of evidence that it greatly improves people’s quality of life and even helps patients live longer; I found it made a huge difference in my treatment.”