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Allison Wied and Todd Jarecki enjoying the moment out on the lake.
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Where there is love there is life.”
Allison Wied and Todd Jarecki know this to be true.
The two met as volunteers in the San Diego Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Allison had lost her mother to pancreatic cancer in 2006. Todd was involved because of his childhood friend, Chris, who had lost his father to the disease.
At Affiliate meetings and socials, fellow volunteers noticed they had a special connection with each other right off the bat. Together, the two noticed their shared zest for life.
Todd was involved in the affiliate for three years. He focused on working on the sponsorship committee for two years and serving in a leadership role his third year. Allison was involved with the Affiliate for two years, also serving in two leadership positions, including that of PurpleStride Chair.
The two now live in New York City. Allison recently reflected on their volunteer experience and how important it is to their relationship today:
Allison and Todd snapping a selfie in Times Square in New York City.
“We both had a wonderful experience volunteering,” Allison said. “We’re so grateful for the relationships we made, not only with each other, but with friends we still connect with in San Diego. Of course, we were not involved with the organization to meet someone in a romantic capacity, but we were very lucky to have had it happen in this unexpected way. We will always cherish our very special and unique connection with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.”
Allison and Todd’s first date was a running date, and ever since, running has been a common interest. They also like to push boundaries, regularly participating in endurance events like the Warrior Dash – a 5K obstacle course, and Tough Mudder – a race that involves obstacles courses, and you guessed it…a lot of mud.
This April they’ll participate in PurpleStride New York City and reconnect with the organization that brought them together.
Where there is love there is life.
For Allison and Todd, make that a zest for life.
