Today is my friend Chad’s birthday. Unfortunately, he’s not here to share it with us, as last November Chad lost his battle with leukemia.

I’ve known Chad since high school, and he was my best friend for nearly 20 years. The godfather to my young daughter. He was the best man in my wedding, and we moved up to Portland together in 2002 shortly after I was married. We shared a moving truck.

His ashes currently rest next to my fireplace. When the time is right, I will accompany his family and his beautiful widow to the San Juan Islands in Washington to spread his ashes and give Chad the final peace his soul deserves.

A short while ago, I received an email from Toro Bravo (I’m on their mailing list), the fine tapas restaurant located in close-in North Portland.

That tall skinny dude in the kitchen IS John; well, at least what’s left of him after shedding about 90 pounds. He is biking, swimming, and running, and he is participating in “Team In Training” that helps fund the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

If you would like to help support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, click on John’s donation page: http://pages.teamintraining.org/or/pctri09/jgorham

Each donation helps accelerate finding a cure for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. More than 823,000 Americans are battling these blood cancers.

On behalf of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, thank you very much for your support!

John=John Gorham, owner and proprietor of Toro Bravo. Last time I was at the restaurant, I did happen to spy a very svelte looking John Gorham working behind the line.

I don’t have a personal affiliation with Toro Bravo. I know they don’t need my endorsement (“Nobody goes there no more; it’s too crowded!”—Yogi Berra), but every meal I’ve had at Toro Bravo has been excellent. They will be hosting a second anniversary open house in early June (Monday, June 1, from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m), with a Leukemia & Lymphoma Society donation box.

Please consider supporting Mr. Gorham’s and Toro Bravo’s efforts on behalf of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. My dear friend Cynthia Lujan is similarly raising money–all in anticipation for the Seattle Rock n Roll Full marathon on June 27, 2009.

I can’t think of a better birthday present for my friend Chad.