On September 27, I will be taking on the Berlin Marathon. While training for 26.2 miles requires months of sweat, early mornings, and physical discipline, the true heart of this journey isn't about the finish line in Germany. I am running to raise vital funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and I am carrying the memory of three extraordinary young men with me every step of the way.

This race is dedicated to the memory of three former students, three beloved Knights who walked our halls at St. Francis de Sales: Cody Sisler, Salvatore Pinardo, and Zachary Bond.

At our alma mater, we are dynamically called to “Arise and battle bravely.” These three young men did exactly that. Long before I began training for this marathon, Cody, Sal, and Zach modeled for all of us what true endurance looks like. They battled Cystic Fibrosis not with despair, but with an unshakeable courage, a profound Salesian grace, and a daily perseverance that left an indelible mark on my priesthood and our entire school community. They showed us how to live today well, even when the cross was heavy.

Now, here is an opportunity to arise and battle on their behalf.

Cystic Fibrosis is a relentless genetic disease that challenges every single breath, but the CF Foundation is on the cusp of revolutionary breakthroughs. By supporting this run, you are directly funding the science, the treatments, and the eventual cure that will ensure future generations of children can breathe easy, dream big, and live fully.

I am inviting everyone to participate in this mission with me. Whether you can give $10, $100, or simply offer a prayer for our miles ahead, every single contribution matters. Your generosity honors the legacy of Cody, Sal, and Zach, transforms our shared grief into proactive hope, and fuels the fight against this disease.

Thank you for your incredible support, your prayers, and your shared commitment to our Knights. Together, let us run the race, keep the faith, and find a cure.  V+J!