http://blisstree.com/feel/ms-inspiration-zoe-koplowitz-finishes-last-place-at-the-nyc-marathon-897/

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700138313/Running-ability-in-middle-age-predicts-heart-status-as-you-age.html

These kinds of studies motivate me because I love to run, but sometimes it’s hard for me to justify spending time on it. This suggests that not only will I be healthier during the years that I run but also exercising will likely protect me from some health risks.

Upon entering the Biomedical Informatics program at the University of Utah, I had only a vague idea of the field of biomedical informatics. I had information-systems expertise but had taken only one college-level course in biology—12 years prior to that time—and had little understanding of the medical, statistics, and public-health disciplines. Despite that lack of knowledge, I had a strong desire to learn and to develop my skills. Thanks to the guidance and patience of numerous mentors, friends, and family members, I have grown immensely during my time as a doctoral student and feel prepared for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

First and foremost, I gratefully acknowledge my wonderful wife, Laurel (Harmon) Piccolo. We started dating as I started this doctoral program, and we were married by the end of my first year. Many times I have been discouraged or flustered, and just as many times she has buoyed me up with heartfelt words of encouragement and expressions of confidence. Additionally, Laurel has cared for our wonderful children, cooked glorious meals, and performed innumerable chores to make up for the long hours required by my studies. What a marvelous companion, support, and friend!

Secondly, I acknowledge our two young children, Kate and Joshua. Their smiling faces, innocent love, and abundant energy have lifted my spirits each day and provided motivation to push through difficult obstacles.

Thirdly, I express gratitude to several family members who have been instrumental in helping me reach this point. From an early age, my mother, Alice (Cook) Piccolo, encouraged me to explore a variety of disciplines. With her encouragement, I attended a computer-skills class in high school and discovered a new aptitude and interest. Mom has always been a comforting influence in my life and helped me cope with challenges. My father, Richard Piccolo, has taught me the value of consistency, hard work, and responsibility. During most of his career, Dad has arisen before sunrise and ridden his bicycle to work. Often he has followed his day job with a second or third job to support his family. I also thank my aunt, Janice Piccolo, and my pseudo-aunt, Linda Palmer. In addition to offering their cheery demeanors and insightful perspectives on life, they generously allowed us to live in their basement apartment during the final (and most demanding) stages of completing this dissertation. And many thanks be to Roger and Maxine Harmon, Laurel’s parents, who brighten my day each time I see them and who continuously offer support beyond any expectation.

Many thanks to the rest of you, even though I didn’t mention your name specifically, for your support, friendship, and encouragement!

For my job, I’ll be working on some cutting edge research related to analyzing people’s DNA and RNA (basically speaking) and coming up with better ways to determine the best treatments for cancer patients. I feel very privileged to be doing this kind of work and to be working with great people.

Sometimes we look at ourselves and perceive certain qualities that we have as being abnormal or limiting. Especially when those qualities are beyond our control. While I believe it is possible to overcome many of our weaknesses, especially with God’s help, I also think it can be empowering to acknowledge our limitations and make the most of life despite them. And who knows, maybe what we perceive as a limitation can actually become a strength in ways we don’t now understand.

Your thoughts?

(Here’s the article about Tim Howard.)

She told me she wasn’t sure how it would turn out because she’s not good at this kind of thing. Boy, I’d really like to see what she could do if she only had some talent. Nice work, Laurel!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4Mp9qmjfQQ&feature=related