Why I Run – Aaron Kuney’s Fundraising Journey
Why I Run for Team One Step
I’m thrilled to be participating in the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon with Team One Step.
After running my first marathon with Fred’s Team and Memorial Sloan Kettering (NYC 2022), I’ve continued this journey with Team One Step: first in Berlin 2024, and now in Chicago 2025. My long-term goal is to complete all of the Abbott World Marathon Majors (New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin, London, Tokyo, and recently added Sydney), using each race as an opportunity to support cancer patients, families, and survivors. I want this journey to be about more than just miles. I want it to matter.
This year, I am proud to be raising money for Camp One Step by Children’s Oncology Services, an organization that operates camps and other recreational and educational experiences for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. Camp One Step creates joyful, healing experiences that help cure the spirit by providing an environment of hope, independence, and community. Many kids say it’s the first place they feel truly seen and understood, not as patients but as kids.
Like so many others, my life has been touched by cancer. I run in memory of John Hollmeyer, whose life was shaped by his early battle with Hodgkin’s disease and the lasting impact of its treatment. I also run in celebration of Judith Wish, who has beaten cancer, and in support of Kevin Barry, who continues to fight. And of course, there are many more names that come to mind for so many of us. A world without cancer would be a better one for all of us.
My daughters’ commitment to swimming and dance inspires me to stay active and keep pushing forward, even during what has been a tremendously stressful and busy work season. Training for this marathon reminds me that even small steps, taken consistently, can lead to something powerful.
This year, I got a late start on my fundraising, so I’m doing something different. To help close the gap, I’m personally matching every dollar you contribute, up to $3,000. That amount reflects the minimum contribution required for a charitable entry into the marathon, and I’m proud to commit it to support Camp One Step. Your donation will help children with cancer experience healing, connection, and joy, and with the match, it goes twice as far.
Here’s how you can help:
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Donate: Any amount helps. No gift is too small.
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Spread the word: Share my page with friends, family, and your networks. Every voice helps raise awareness.
Thank you for considering a gift. Your support means the world to me.
Let’s do this!!
My Supporters
- Brandon Baur Last month $50.00
- Aaron Kuney Proud to support this wonderful organization! Let’s gooooo! October 2025 $3,000.00
- Elizabeth Rossi October 2025 $50.00
- Ben Jordan-Downs Have a great run in Chicago! Enjoy the experience on and off the course!! Best wishes from Central Ohio!!! October 2025 $810.00
- Stephanie Mariande Go AK!!!! October 2025 $100.00
- Aaron Kuney Proud to support this wonderful organization! Let’s gooooo! October 2025 $3,000.00
- Ben Jordan-Downs Have a great run in Chicago! Enjoy the experience on and off the course!! Best wishes from Central Ohio!!! October 2025 $810.00
- Stephanie Mariande Go AK!!!! October 2025 $100.00
- Christopher Zachary September 2025 $100.00
- Sally Steponkus Roche Way to go, Aaron!!!! September 2025 $100.00