On January 5th of this year, pulmonary fibrosis ended my mother's life after 80 years of living. Her name is Lillia. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, aunt, cousin, and friend... she still is.

Throughout her life, she loved, shared, and helped others, and always provided guidance and advice. She was always there.

I thought she would always be there.

But then, she suffered from pulmonary fibrosis. At first, she was getting tired more often. Then, she was frequently out of breath. It deteriorated to the point that she needed a portable oxygen machine. She was in and out of the hospital last year - she spent her birthday in September in a hospital bed, as well as Christmas. It was then that my father and I were told she was in the final stage of her life. We moved to a hospice facility and stayed with her until she breathed her last breath.

Her life ended, but her spirit remains.

As a runner, I want to honor her spirit and am running this year's Philadelphia half-marathon to raise funds and awareness to benefit the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF).

Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that causes lung tissue to become thickened, stiff, and scarred. The lungs eventually lose their ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream, making everyday activities such as breathing and walking extremely difficult. It is a progressive disease with no known cure and is often fatal within three to five years of diagnosis. Over 250,000 Americans are living with PF today. Approximately 50,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

Because of the work of the PFF, there is hope for those living with PF. Funds raised will support the PFF’s efforts to accelerate research, advance improved care for those living with the disease, and provide unequaled support and education resources for patients, caregivers, family members, and healthcare providers.

But we can't do this without you! Only with your support can we keep the PFF's mission active. Please click the "Donate" button to make your gift today. Thank you in advance for your generous support!

For more information on how your support will make a difference in the lives of PF patients and their families, please visit www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.