We’re looking forward to introducing you to Larry DeSpain. Check out our conversation below.
Larry, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I get up, eat breakfast and then go for a 45 minute run.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I volunteer for a pediatric cancer charity, Snowdrop Foundation. I first learned of Snowdrop in 2007 while training for my first half marathon. Kevin Kline spoke at one of our Saturday morning after run seminars. His talk sparked a memory from 2001 when I was asked by a coworker to donate platelets for a patient who was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 4 months. It was the first time that I realized that children suffer from cancer, not just adults. I started fundraising for Snowdrop through the Houston Marathon’s Run for a reason program. In the 16 years that I participated in the program, I was one of the top three individual fundraisers 13 times. I was the top individual fundraiser 6 times including one run of 3 years in a row. As of January, I have raised in excess of $370,000. In 2010 I initiated the Bling for Bravery program where runners donate their finisher medals, we replace the ribbon so that it meets the hospitals hygiene requirements and then periodically present the medals to patients at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Hospital to reward them for their bravery and courage. I have not kept track of how many medals we have presented, but it is in the thousands. The program definitely puts some big smiles on some little faces. By their reaction, one would think they were receiving an Olympic medal. In fact, someone anonymously donated a bronze medal from the 2012 London Olympics to the program.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My father taught me the most about the value of work and the ethics required. He was a teacher with six children and at times had three jobs to support our family. He taught by example as well as sharing experiences and insights.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Please remember to be kind to others and don’t judge other people. Be concerned about who you are and what you can do for others.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I volunteer and fundraise for a pediatric cancer charity that helps fund research to find a cure for pediatric cancer. I believe that one day a cure will be found. Not just treating cancer, but curing cancer.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I do what I do for self-gratification. The motto of my alma mater, The United States Merchant Marine Academy, is Acta non Verba, deeds not words. I try to live up to that motto.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.snowdropfoundation.org
- Facebook: Snowdrop Foundatin
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