Life has a way of teaching us about resilience through unexpected paths. When my father was diagnosed with cancer in 2020, and again in 2024, it shook our world. But it also showed me the incredible strength of family. My husband's daily support, my parents' endless love that gave me wings to raise my daughters, Kareena & Esha, and even my dog Bella's almond eyes offering unconditional love became sources of strength I never knew I needed.
This March (2024), I made a promise: every day my father went for radiation in Maryland, I would exercise. It wasn't just about getting back to my former size 6 self—it was about finding strength in vulnerability and beauty in the struggle. Since July, something magical has happened. Those daily walks and runs became my oxygen, as my girlfriend says, transforming into a journey of rediscovering my confidence and joy. From the winding paths of Central Park, where we raised our family in NYC, to the welcoming streets of Summit, NJ where we've made our home, to the cherished neighborhoods of Maryland where my parents live - each step forward became a meditation on gratitude, each mile a testament to my growing strength and self-belief.
My dearest girlfriend(s), my sisterhood for life spanning globally, cheer me on daily. My journey - the struggles with weight, the bodily changes, the self-doubt - has been only celebrated with victory, no matter how small my daily challenge holds, transforming not just physically but blossoming into someone who believes in the power of possibility again. I am beyond grateful for that nudge of support daily.
As I train for the Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber, every mile means something more. It's for Papa, fighting cancer with quiet dignity. It's for Mom, whose strength never wavers. It's for my husband, who believes in me even when I doubt myself. It's for my daughters, who teach me about self-love (@selfcarebyesha). It's for Bella Paws, whose morning walks in a stroller started this journey through three communities I call home. It's for my brother, whose playful skepticism inspires me to push harder and reach higher. And it's for my girlfriends, who make every challenge feel conquerable.
Running 26.2 miles isn't just about crossing a finish line. It's about honoring every person who's helped me find strength I never knew I had. Through Dana-Farber's research, we can help write new chapters of hope for families like ours, turning today's challenges into tomorrow's victories.
In 1978, my father traded his homeland for our future. In 2025, I'm trading my comfort zone for 26.2 miles of purpose. This one's for all of you who've made me who I am and for every family fighting battles they never expected to face.
Will you help me honor this journey of love and support Dana-Farber's fight against cancer? It will make a difference.
With gratitude and hope,
Ruchi
NOTE: Join me on this transformative journey as I train for the Boston Marathon. I'll be sharing my daily (progress, struggles, victories, and inspiring stories). Follow me on my Instagram @ruchi2d2.
