Stepping Up to Help Terrorism's Victims

Mountain Trail resident Adam Napell wouldn't describe himself as a "health nut," although he's active enough playing soccer and hockey to entertain notions of running in a marathon.

But when that goal seemed a bit too challenging, Napell noted he could "ease in" with a triathlon; specifically, an Aug. 7 triathlon aimed at raising money to provide counseling and support to victims of terrorism in Israel.

Napell said he learned about the event after his wife, Michelle, began working for the One Family Fund. While certainly impressed by the purpose of the fund, he was also intrigued by the challenge of the triathlon—could he run the 10K, bike 40 km, and swim 1.5 km?

"This has really forced me to take it to a whole new level," he said. 

While he said he was comfortable with the biking and running sections, swimming was a challenge.

"The first time I was in the pool, I couldn't swim a lap," he said, adding his swimming has gotten better.

He figures he'll be ready in time for the Team One Family triathlon, Aug. 7 in New York.

Whether he's ready or not physically, he's ready for the event fiscally: he's already raised nearly double the $3,000 minimum and has pledges totalling $6,664 towards his $10,000 goal.

The triathlon is the primary fundraising event for the One Family Fund, which provides support to the victims of terrorist attacks in Israel, victims like American student and fellow-triathlon athlete Pia Levine, who was injured while riding a bus during a visit to Israel.

"I don't think people realize how often something like this happens over there," Napell said. "The people that witness (terrorist attacks) and survive need so much counseling and support."

"The organization really does important work for these victims," he added.

To help support Napell's fundraising—or learn more about the Team One Family triathlon, go to www.teamonefamily.org. Click here for information about the One Family Fund.