For a long time, I assumed my distance-running days had ended with high school cross-country meets and track intervals. After graduation, the shoes went into a box, life accelerated, and I took a massive hiatus from the sport.
However a few years ago I started quietly logging miles again, and this year the casual hobby turned into a dedicated pursuit. I’ve genuinely fallen in love with the process of the marathon build. Instead of dreading the alarm clock, I’m fired up to put the work in- structuring the weekend long runs, tracking the data, and pushing my physical ceiling to see exactly what I'm capable of over 26.2 miles.
It also makes a massive difference that I’m taking on Chicago alongside my twin brother Nick! Sharing this undertaking with him has been an incredible experience, and having him in my corner has been the ultimate motivator to get out the door on the tough training days.
But personal milestones and shared family goals only get you so far when the miles get heavy. The true momentum behind this race comes from the organization I’m running to support- Special Children’s Charities. I am incredibly proud to leverage this marathon for a cause that creates real, tangible impact.
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!