A Family Tradition With a Bigger Purpose
Through JUST TRYAN IT races and fundraising, one Del Ray family is teaching its children that perseverance, compassion and service can make a lasting difference for families facing childhood cancer.
Two years ago, a friend introduced our family to JUST TRYAN IT (JTI), a local organization that supports families facing childhood cancer. Being involved has given us a meaningful way to come together as a family while giving back to our community.
We’ve participated as a family in the Frozen Feet 5K for the past two years alongside friends, making it a fun and rewarding tradition. Last fall, our son (7 years old at the time) participated in the JTI triathlon—an experience he loved not only for the physical accomplishment but also for the opportunity to lead his own fundraising efforts and rally support from friends and family. Through JTI, our children are learning the importance of community engagement, helping others, and making a difference.
This fall, our daughter (six years old) will join her brother in the triathlon, and we’re excited to continue this journey as a family. We would love to see more of our Del Ray neighbors at an upcoming JTI event, whether it’s the triathlon in September or the next Frozen Feet race in early 2027, to experience firsthand the impact of this incredible organization!
We’ve participated as a family in the Frozen Feet 5K for the past two years alongside friends, making it a fun and rewarding tradition. Last fall, our son (7 years old at the time) participated in the JTI triathlon—an experience he loved not only for the physical accomplishment but also for the opportunity to lead his own fundraising efforts and rally support from friends and family. Through JTI, our children are learning the importance of community engagement, helping others, and making a difference.
This fall, our daughter (six years old) will join her brother in the triathlon, and we’re excited to continue this journey as a family. We would love to see more of our Del Ray neighbors at an upcoming JTI event, whether it’s the triathlon in September or the next Frozen Feet race in early 2027, to experience firsthand the impact of this incredible organization!
Our annual Bethesda-area kids' triathlon is on Sunday, September 20, at Landon School. More information about the event, as well as links to register, volunteer, or donate, can be found at justtryanit.org/be-race-details. In addition, there is a Frozen Feet 5K that is a family-friendly walk-run in February at the Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia. People can email info@justtryanit.org to learn more about either event.