If you know me, you know one thing: I'm not a runner.

Before signing up for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, I had never run a marathon or even considered myself a runner. But some challenges are worth taking on when they're bigger than yourself.

A few years ago, I knew CancerCare as a nonprofit that many of the individuals and families I had the privilege of working with generously supported. That changed when a client was diagnosed with terminal cancer. During one of our final meetings, he told me his only concern wasn't himself - it was making sure my team and I would look after his wife when he was gone.

After he passed away, I learned that she had turned to CancerCare for support. Through its support groups, she found not only guidance but also a close-knit community and lasting friendships with others who truly understood what she was going through. Seeing the impact CancerCare had on her completely changed my perspective on the organization.

Soon after, I attended a CancerCare event where a husband shared how CancerCare supported his family after his wife was diagnosed with cancer while they were expecting their first child. His story moved me so deeply that I asked how I could help. I've now proudly served on the CancerCare Young Professionals Committee for the past two years.

Then cancer hit even closer to home in late 2025. Just days before one of my closest friends was supposed to get married, his fiancée became too sick to leave the hospital during treatment, forcing them to postpone their wedding. Thankfully, she has since completed treatment, is doing very well, and even got married! Watching her determination to keep fighting and his unwavering optimism through it all gave me a profound appreciation for the resilience it takes to overcome cancer and continues to inspire me today.

That's why I'm running 26.2 miles.

I'm running to challenge myself, honor the resilience I've witnessed, and support an organization I've seen change lives firsthand.

Last year alone, CancerCare provided more than 150,000 free services to people affected by cancer, and 93 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to programs that provide emotional, practical and financial support.

My goal is to raise $5,000 to help CancerCare continue this incredible work. Whether you donate $10 or $1,000, every contribution brings us one step closer to that goal - and, more importantly, helps ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

Every mile I run is for them. Thank you for being part of the journey.