LaVerne continues to run 3-4 miles several days per week, and competes in local 5K races and half-marathons

Being a caregiver is very demanding, both physically and mentally.  The following letter, submitted in July 2008 by retiree Jack Lippman of Lake Jackson, Texas, highlights how important it is to keep yourself fit when you are caring for a loved one:

“My wife, LaVerne Lippman, just joined “The President’s Challenge.” She runs three miles every other day, and exercises five times a week for 1½ hours. She has competed in four half-marathon races; at the Chevron Houston Half-Marathon this past January she was third in her age group, competing against hundreds of other women.  She also placed third in her age group at the Surfside Half-Marathon on her first try. 

“Much of her time, when she is not working out, is spent caring for me, for I am like a three-year-old baby.  I had a stroke 12 years ago after retiring from Dow’s Texas Division, where I worked for 38 years.  Although only five feet tall and weighing 100 pounds, she takes care of my every need.

“LaVerne has never been sick during our 51 years of marriage.  And how many women can wear their “go-away suit” after 51 years, as she did when we recently renewed our wedding vows?  I am so proud of what she is doing, her achievements and her healthy lifestyle!”

2011 Update:

LaVerne continues to run 3-4 miles several days per week, and competes in local 5K races and half-marathons.  Often, she is the only competitor in her age group (75 and up).  However, the lack of “competition” does not leave her any less motivated; she does not compete for the prize, but rather for the satisfaction of continuing to meet “The Challenge” of good health!