To my charitably inclined Friends and Family,

Whether it’s $1 or $1,000 – I am grateful for your support in Defeating Diabetes!

If I’m being honest… at the start of this year I thought: I’m going to wake up at 4 am on October 13th, quietly lace my shoes, drive to the city, run 26.2 miles, and enjoy my donut at the finish line. I couldn’t have imagined how this journey would transform me, or how grateful I am that it has meant so much for so many!  Injecting a little (self-deprecating) humor into the 2024 Bank of America Chicago 13.1 - part of the Chicago Distance Series

For my 35th birthday, I challenged myself to run the 46th Annual Chicago Marathon. It was a birthday I wasn’t always certain I would reach. My Type II diabetes diagnosis came at a critical moment – bringing new and terrifying limitations that completely changed the trajectory of my life. Running a marathon is the best way I can prove that I've shattered those limitations.  

Diagnosis gave me a glimpse into my future, and it was not the future I’d hoped for...

Millions of people living with diabetes like me, live in the fear that it makes us even more vulnerable to further chronic illness, stroke, nerve damage, amputations, blindness, and more. The disease walks through every room with you, it casts a shadow on every happy moment, and invades every private hope and dream we have. There are no breaks... no escaping it. Certainly, my family and I have suffered tremendous pain from diabetes – which has left lasting scars on my body, spirit, and mind. 

However, my fight with diabetes has also helped me find new strength and resilience within myself – something that I hope will spread to others.

I have developed a gladiatorial relationship with this disease - learning to pick myself up after each blow, dig deep, and reach through hopelessness for sources of inspiration despite my challenges. By embracing the principles of fitness, science, nutrition – and tremendous discipline - I have managed to lose approximately 180 lbs. and free myself from dependence on medication, insulin injections, and regular finger-sticking. 

I never imagined making it this far – and I was so deeply humbled when the Bank ofDisplaying my hometown spirit at the 2024 Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle - part of the Chicago Distance Series. America, and the American Diabetes Association® asked me to share this story (See the Story). 

I am filled with determination at the thought of stepping up to the Start-Line on October 13th.

To even reach the point where I am healthy enough to run a marathon has been a journey beyond my wildest dreams, and the support I’ve received from the American Diabetes Association®, the Bank of America, family, friends; and the myriad of medical, fitness, nutrition, and mental health professionals has been overwhelming. 

While it's true that I started this journey for a donut – I appreciate the tremendous amount of support it's taken to help me reach this moment in my life, and I realize that I have a responsibility to use this opportunity to raise awareness on behalf of my fellow individuals living with diabetes, our families, and the community of dedicated researchers, scientists, and medical care providers working hard to support and find a cure for this disease. 

If I'm lucky enough to make it to the Start-Line on October 13th it would bring profound meaning to this journey to imagine that my presence there... with defiance (for this disease) in my heart... and resilience in my eyes - might inspire someone else with the same hope and courage that it took to get me there.
 

So my "ask" - please consider taking up this cause with me and supporting the ADA through my campaign page.

I believe in my heart that any donation matters - and with your support we can Defeat Diabetes and improve lives!

Thank you! 

Detailed information about incentives:

Any donation is welcome, but if you're considering selecting an incentive, here's a little more information to help you.  

Garmin Connect Live Tracking Link: During the race I'll be wearing a Garmin Forerunner 965 device capable of providing satellite location and biometric data to your favorite internet browser or mobile device. These readings let you plug directly into me as a runner and provides you with graphic readouts such as current map location, heart rate information, speed, pace, elevation, cadence and more in real time. Perfect for my 'data-junkies' and supporters who want to follow along with the race as it's unfolding. 

In Your Honor Singlet Dedication:

"In Your Honor Singlet Dedications" allow you to name yourself, a loved one, or a short phrase of support as a dedication to my Team Diabetes Racing Singlet (sort of like a jersey for runners). Dedications allow you to claim personal connection and a special place on this journey with me, as your message will literally 'ride along' with me for the marathon. These names and phrases are important because they are inspirational not only to the crowds but other runners braving their way to the finish line.  

If you're interested in contributing a name or a motivational phrase, please choose this incentive before Oct 11th so that we have time to include your dedication by Race Day.