UPDATE: I completed Ironman Texas in 12 hours and 45 minutes and 8 days later, with joy in my heart I crossed the finish line of Ironman Brazil in 12 hours 22 minutes.

It is hard these days not to experience compassion fatigue when confronted with the terrible news of natural disasters and misery around the world and the calls for donations. So I am reaching out to my family and friends to shake this fatigue. Join me as I use my passion to give a little compassion and literally change the lives of those less fortunate.

My mantra is simple: 2 races, 1 goal.

On May 21, 2011 I will participate in Ironman Texas. On May 29, 2011 I will participate in Ironman Brazil. Combined, I will swim 4.8 miles, ride my bicycle 224 miles and run 52.4 miles. It's going to require all the determination, endurance and strength I can muster.

But when I think of the millions of women and children who have to walk miles each day to retrieve water for their families, I think of how most of that hard-earned water isn't even clean and can infect people with deadly diseases. I think about how 45,000 people die each day from waterborne illnesses. It furthers my resolve.

My goal is to raise at least $5000.00, enough to drill a water well. Because of charity: water's unique model, 100% of all donations go directly to water projects, and each donation is "proved" using Google Earth when projects are complete. You can pledge per mile, you can give a lump sum or you can just donate whatever and whenever you want in the next three months.

I have posted a video to allow you to gain an appreciation of the water crisis. That's more than millions around the world can do. Please join me in helping them.

This goal is not possible without the love of my incredible wife, Jennifer, our two boys, Gianluca and Matteo and my wonderful family.