My second child, Hollis, was born on March 18, 2019, with several complex congenital heart defects, including DORV (double outlet right ventricle), coarctation of the aortic arch, VSD (ventricular septal defect), and ASD (atrial septal defect). Many of these were discovered before birth, and just two days after he arrived, Hollis underwent an all-day open heart surgery. He spent six weeks in the hospital recovering, and then we got the incredible gift of bringing him home.

Despite his early challenges, Hollis thrived. He was strong, brave, and full of life. The only lingering concern was the artificial valve placed during that first surgery—a valve we knew would eventually need to be replaced. That day came just four days after his 4th birthday. The surgery went well, but in a devastating turn less than 12 hours later, Hollis went into cardiac arrest and passed away.

Losing him shattered us—he left behind two siblings who adored him. As their mother, I’m doing everything I can to show them how to keep moving forward in the face of heartbreak. I want them to see that we can carry grief and still choose hope, that we can honor Hollis by living with strength and purpose—just like he did. 

I run for my mental health, but I also run for Hollis—for the strength he showed and the strength he no longer gets to show in a physical body. This year, I’m proud to partner with the Children’s Heart Foundation as I train for the NYC Marathon and raise money for critical research in pediatric congenital heart defects.

If it weren’t for the advances in this field, we may have never taken Hollis home, never had those beautiful years with him. I’m fundraising in his name—for him and for every child born with a heart that needs help. If you knew Hollis, you loved him. And if you feel moved to give, I’ll be raising funds until October.

Thank you for helping me honor Hollis and support this important cause.