Half-marathoner to turn marathoner in honor of friend

Avid half-marathoner Ami Doughtry will make her marathon debut in honor of her high school friend, Willa Meshack.Willa, 39, has been living with multiple myeloma since June 5, 2008. She has endured numerous treatments, pain, physical therapy and major life adjustments.

She doesn't look at this disease as a "death sentence", but an opportunity for a "new lease on life," said Ami, of Texas. Willa has the support of her mother, brother, niece (Zoey), roommate and countless others. Willa is feeling better and is in high spirits. It's because of the MMRF that new drugs get discovered and approved for her and other patients.