Each of us has our own story to share. This week we want to share Candice's story with you. Her courage will motivate you and we will all be there on November 5 to cheer her on! Candice will be doing the 5K and her race number is #177.

Candice is 35 years old and was born with Neurofibromatosis, which resulted in a facial deformity and 17 surgeries. Health and fitness has been one way that she maintains her strong sense of self and motivating others.

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder of the nervous system which causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in the body at any time. This progressive disorder affects all races, all ethnic groups and both sexes equally. NF is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States (one in every 3,000 to 4,000 births).

A year ago Candice set out to compete in her first triathlon and completed that goal in May 2005 as the only women with Neurofibromatosis to have competed in that race.

During her training, she has ran/walked in over eight 5K's. She is preparing for the Shapes Total Fitness Iron Girl Women's 5K & 10K.

Candice recently found out that her tumors have begun to grow and she has three surgeries of ahead of her beginning in Jan 2006. The saddest part of this news for Candice, "was knowing that I would not be able to attend running events in my area that I so enjoyed last year. The Iron Girl event in Tampa will be my last event for 2005 and I imagine one of the most powerful days. I am looking forward to this event so much and wonder how I could give to Iron Girl to motivate other women with disabilities to get out and not only survive, but strive for a beautiful and healthy life with style!"

Candice's motto, "Where my scar ends, my heart, my beauty, my courage begins."

To learn more about Neurofibromatosis, click here: Nuerofibromatosis Information