Saturday mornings when I was growing up always started off the same. I would stagger downstairs still half asleep in my PJs, and my mom and dad would be sitting in the family room reading the newspapers. The place would smell like coffee and on really good days, donuts.

I would come in rubbing my eyes and scouting out which breakfast item I could grab before my sister woke up. My mom would turn to me and say, “Are you ready to go on a big adventure?” To which I would reply, “What’s the plan mom?” That’s how we started our weekends.

Now you must understand that our “big adventures” were not always that big. Maybe a trip to a new store, trying some new food or a visit with a friend, but we always called them “big adventures” and, automatically, they became more fun. It was like a secret code word for an activity with mom.

My mom passed away from multiple myeloma in 2010. In memory of my mom and for the many people still fighting, the MMRF has taken me on a number of adventures. Together with my family and friends, we have raised more than $100,000 through many marathons and team races. Each adventure has been an amazing experience. I know the Grand Canyon will be no different.

I hope you take a moment to plan your own adventure. Mom wouldn’t want it any other way.