Since 1969, Special Children’s Charities has been the driving force behind inclusion and empowerment for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Chicago.

Special Children’s Charities aims to transcend boundaries and redefine possibilities by serving as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity within both the disability community and the City of Chicago.

The spirit of accomplishment, inclusion, and joy that are part of the marathon experience are what we strive to provide for thousands of our participants in all 77 Chicago neighborhoods. With your help, we are creating a more inclusive Chicago—one mile at a time.

I’m honored to be running my first ever Chicago Marathon in 2026 to support this incredible mission. My passion for running and this community began with my dad, who has been an inspiration throughout my life. He grew up running in Mexico, ran his first marathon at 18, and has never stopped. Over the years he has completed the Chicago Marathon an estimated 14 times, and countless other races, including the well-loved Fox Valley Marathon in St. Charles, Illinois, turkey trots, quad city marathons and more.  

Growing up, I remember us cheering him on at races whenever we could. Finding him in the crowd always filled me with pride and motivation, and I dreamed of one day crossing that same finish line myself. That inspiration has stayed with me through my education and career journey.

I attended Northern Illinois University, where I shifted my focus from nursing to Rehabilitation and Disability Services because I knew my calling was to work with individuals with disabilities and those navigating complex care needs. After graduating in 2018, I began working as a Direct Support Professional, a role that deeply shaped my understanding and commitment to this community. I later became a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) and ultimately returned to nursing school to strengthen my ability to serve others.

Today, I work part-time as a Residential Nurse with El Valor, where I’m grateful to continue building relationships and advocating for the people who have taught me so much. Running this marathon is about honoring that journey and helping Special Children’s Charities continue its life-changing work.

Thank you for supporting my page and helping us create a more inclusive Chicago—one mile at a time.

Again, thank you for supporting the thousands of participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago!  DONATE using the link below!