A MESSAGE FROM Anna's Fundraising Page
On November 3, 2024, I will be running in the TCS New York City Marathon. As part of my participation, I have pledged to raise money to benefit Gilda's Club, a local cancer support community in Westchester. Gilda's Club provides free support to anyone affected by cancer, including patients, caregivers, and their families.
Although running my first marathon is its own challenge, I feel particularly connected to the Gilda's Club cause. In spring 2022, my father, Matt Kennedy, was diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer. After a year long battle with cancer, my dad tragically passed away on May 18, 2023. As difficult as the past year has been, it has taught me so much and I understand first hand how much is needed to support patients and their families through all stages - from diagnosis and treatment but especially loss.
Most of all, I understand how isolating it is to be a young person struggling with the loss of a parent. Gilda's Club helps to make this critical support and sense of community accessible to people of all ages through programs such as support groups, counseling, and social activities.
My dad was a true New Yorker and I am honored to be running the NYC Marathon in his memory and fundraising for a cause I am passionate about. I already have his 25 hour long playlist of his favorite songs to get me through every step, although hopefully I can finish the race quicker than that!
The images on my page were taken in June 2021 during hikes on a family road trip around Arizona and Utah. My dad was always adventurous, one of his favorite things was planning trips and bringing his family around the world with him. For those interested in learning more about my dad and his incredible life, please find his obituary HERE.
Please support my fundraising efforts for the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon Fundraising. No donation is too small. Please click on the donate button!
