Hi Everyone,
Those who know me well know how running has become a part of my life over the past few years. In November 2023, I ran my first half marathon - the B.A.A. Half Marathon - and after decided I wanted to go further and run a full marathon. While the Boston Marathon is one of the toughest courses, I knew that the opportunity to run for Dana Farber Cancer Institute made it the perfect choice for my first full marathon.
On January 3rd, 2022 my mom was diagnosed with neuroendocrine carcinoma, a rare and incurable systemic cancer. The local hospital she was first diagnosed at gave us little hope, only offering one treatment option and a prognosis of 6-12 months to live. That approach wasn't good enough for us. Seeking a second opinion, we turned to Dana Farber, where we found her an incredible care team. While they could not promise a cure, they promised to try everything they could to get her feeling better and living longer. Nearly three years later, they have delivered on that. She has fought everyday with incredible strength, through both the good days and the undeniably difficult ones, while Dana Farber has given us something priceless: time.
With this time, we have made countless memories going to concerts, trips to Disney, and celebrating my 21st birthday all together in Nashville. Beyond the big moments, my mom and I have spent many days doing mundane things - shopping, running errands, spa appointments - and many nights watching One Tree Hill, Schitt's Creek, Dancing with the Stars, Family Feud, Jeopardy, or the latest new true crime documentary. I can't say that without Dana Farber we would have nearly 3 years of these moments.
I will never be able to put a dollar amount on what Dana Farber has done for my family, but this is one way I can thank them and help ensure that other families can access the same care and support we have been blessed with. It will definitely be a challenge but my mom inspires me every day by facing her fight head-on. I hope you'll consider supporting Dana Farber through this effort and I thank you for any encouragement, support, or contribution you can offer. Thank you for listening and being a part of this journey with me!
