From the first day of kindergarten, I was fortunate to have a best friend who lived just around the block. His house became my second home, where I spent countless afternoons and weekends. It was there that I met Louie, my friend's older brother, who was born with Down Syndrome. I couldn’t know then, but Louie would become one of the most impactful teachers in my life.

Growing up, the people in our lives leave lasting impressions, and Louie’s impact on me was immeasurable. He taught me that love transcends differences and that every person is equally worthy of kindness and understanding. Every individual carries within them a beautiful lesson, if only we take the time to listen. Louie’s kindness, joy, and humor left an indelible mark on my heart, and I am honored to have known him.

Experiencing firsthand the challenges Louie and his family faced daily expanded my understanding of perseverance, compassion, and the boundless capacity for love that exists in all people. Louie’s ability to love deeply and purely is admirable, and I carry the lessons he unknowingly taught me every day.

Inspired by Louie and the values he instilled in me, I have been actively involved in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From 2014 to 2016, I participated in multiple Polar Plunge events benefiting Special Olympics Chicago, serving as a team leader for over 40 participants and helping raise tens of thousands of dollars for this incredible cause. Now, as I prepare to run the 2026 Chicago Marathon, I am committed to continuing this journey of giving back.

I am proud to run in support of Special Children's Charities, whose mission aligns deeply with my personal history and values. Special Children's Charities is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through programs that promote inclusion, physical activity, and community engagement. Their work ensures that individuals of all abilities have the opportunity to thrive, and I am honored to contribute to their mission.

Through my marathon fundraising efforts, I aim to raise money and awareness for this vital cause, reflecting how blessed I am to have learned from Louie and others like him. Every step I take during the Chicago Marathon will be a tribute to the lessons of love, patience, and perseverance that Louie taught me—and a commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to shine.

Thank you for supporting me on this journey and for helping make a difference in the lives of so many deserving individuals. Together, we can create a world where everyone is celebrated for their unique abilities.

Special Children's Charities

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.

If you wish to make a donation via check, please send to the address below and they will credit the donation to my fundraising page. Please make sure to include my name (or the person you would like to support) in the memo section.

Please make all checks payable to Special Children's Charities.

Mail to: 
Special Children's Charities 
2 E. 8th St., Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605

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