"This is a milestone that I really wasn't sure I could reach," said Lake when asked how she felt after completing 14 miles Saturday. "When I first started training, I couldn't run more than 40 seconds without stopping." In her quest to serve people affected by HIV, Lake has written a book for caregivers, developed online resources, and created trainings for clergy and lay people, all while wearing a traditional minister's collar.

Now, in a sunny yellow T-shirt with the AIDS marathon logo, she runs the lake front paths, pushing far beyond her comfort zone, and touching people with her story. "She is my inspiration," shared one of Lake's supporters. People can read about what motivates her to run or make donations through Lake's blog entries, Web site and bimonthly column for Windy City Times.

Lake is almost 1/3 of the way toward fulfilling her pledge to raise $3,500 for AFC. Nearly 1.2 million Americans live with HIV, and 40,000 more will become infected this year, according to AFC statistics. In response this summer, AFC will continue to advocate, care for, and educate, and Rev. Lake will keep pounding the marathon path to raise money. "I really appreciate the support people have shown me over the last few weeks, Lake added. "If you're out along the Chicago shoreline Saturday mornings and see me running, wave, flash your lights, or toot your horn."

Make donations of any amount online at www.deborahelake.com . All donations are tax deductible and go directly to AFC.

Rev. Deborah E. Lake is the author of Your Neighbor Has AIDS, a book that gives support to the caregivers of people living with HIV/AIDS. She is currently writing her next book, and fulfilling her recent appointment to serve a four-year term on the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health's Capacity Building Advisory Board.