Running with Purpose - Chicago Marathon 2026 for Team Special Children’s Charities

This year, I’m proud to be running the Chicago Marathon 2026 with Team Special Children’s Charities (SCC), and this race is deeply personal. This will be my 6th marathon and my 3rd Abbott World Marathon Major, and throughout my running journey I’ve learned something important: miles mean more when they serve a purpose. In the past, I’ve proudly raised funds for charities such as Marathon Kids during the NYC Marathon, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when running is paired with impact. As a mother of two children, my heart is especially connected to this mission. I am passionate about helping kids thrive, feel included, and build confidence. Special Children’s Charities empowers youth with intellectual disabilities through sports — and I truly believe sports can be life-changing when children are given the right support, encouragement, and opportunity. This isn’t just another marathon for me. It’s an opportunity to advocate for inclusion. It’s a chance to stand alongside families who deserve support. It’s a commitment to turn every mile into meaningful impact. I am raising at least $2,500 to help fund programs that provide sports, community, and life-enhancing opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities. If you’re able, I would be so grateful for your support. Every donation, no matter the size, moves us closer to creating joy, opportunity, and belonging for kids and families who deserve it. Thank you for believing in this mission and for cheering me on as I run with purpose.

Why I'm running for #TeamSCC

When I think about why I’m running for #TeamSCC, I picture children on the sidelines - and I picture them being invited in.

As a mom, I’ve watched how much courage it takes for a child to try something new. I’ve seen how one encouraging coach, one supportive teammate, or one inclusive environment can completely change a child’s confidence.

That’s what moves me about Special Children’s Charities. They create spaces where children with intellectual disabilities aren’t just accommodated - they are celebrated.

I run many miles in training, often early in the morning before my family wakes up. During those quiet miles, I think about the kind of world I want my children to grow up in - one that values inclusion, kindness, and opportunity for everyone.

Running Chicago with Team SCC is my small way of helping build that world.

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

$1,585.00

achieved

$2,500.00

goal

of your goal reached

My Supporters

  • Anonymous Last month $100.00
  • marzee devichand February 2026 $25.00
  • Kevin O'Connell Incredibly proud of our partner, Angel Naval, and her noble and selfless mission to help children and families in need. February 2026 $500.00
  • William Casey February 2026 $200.00
  • Jericho Naval February 2026 $350.00
  • Kevin O'Connell Incredibly proud of our partner, Angel Naval, and her noble and selfless mission to help children and families in need. February 2026 $500.00
  • Jericho Naval February 2026 $350.00
  • William Casey February 2026 $200.00
  • Michael Meschures Go Angel! February 2026 $200.00
  • Anonymous Last month $100.00