Why I'm Running

On October 11, 2026, I’ll be running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon as part of the Advocate Health Care charity team—and I’ve been thinking a lot about what that really means.

Yes, it’s 26.2 miles. Yes, it’s early mornings, long runs, and months of training. But at the heart of it, this is about people.

There’s something humbling about training mile after mile, knowing that these kids show more strength in a single day than I ever will in 26.2. It’s a reminder that our bodies are gifts, our steps are blessings, and our purpose is often found in how we show up for others.

Since 2011, this team has raised over $2 million to support programs that touch so many—cancer patients, individuals with Down syndrome, and countless families in need of compassionate, life-saving care. Being part of that is something I don’t take lightly.

Running has always been personal—but this time, it feels purposeful.

I’ll carry their stories with me through every mile. Through the hard moments, the doubt, the finish line.

So I run with gratitude. I run with intention. And I run for them.

If you feel called to give, to share, or to simply keep these children in your thoughts and prayers, it would mean more than I can put into words. #Gloforhearts