I’m running the 2025 Chicago Marathon in honor of my Uncle David, and everyone impacted by cystic fibrosis (CF). This race is more than just a physical challenge for me – it’s a way to honor the memory of my mother’s siblings (Cindy, David, Billy, and Joey), all of whom lost their lives to CF. I’m running to raise awareness, fund crucial research, and move us closer to a cure.
 

My Uncle David was a charismatic, funny, active, and resilient man who did not let CF prevent him from living life to the fullest. His favorite quote “you can’t be a could’ve, should’ve, would’ve person" perfectly captures the essence of who he was. Some of my favorite memories with him include skiing, boating, carving pumpkins, and dyeing Easter eggs. He even completed the Great Cow Harbor 10k, which I ran this past September – an incredible achievement for someone living with cystic fibrosis.
 

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, life-shortening disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other vital organs. It makes it difficult for people to breathe, fight infections, and live without constant medical challenges. Around ~40,000 people in the United State currently live with this disease. Too many people with CF, like my mother’s siblings, pass away far too young. The loss of my uncle has been a constant reminder of how much more needs to be done to end this disease.
 

I’ve recently learned that I carry the N1303K mutation on the CFTR gene, which means I’m a CF carrier. This mutation is classified as a Class II mutation and is associated with severe CF symptoms. When both parents are CF carriers, there is a 25% chance their child will inherit cystic fibrosis, a 50% chance the child will be a carrier without having the disease, and a 25% chance the child will neither be a carrier or have CF. While I don’t have the disease myself, knowing that I carry this gene makes this cause even more personal. I know that a cure is the only way to give future generations a better chance at living long and healthy lives.
 

This marathon is not just a run, it’s a chance to raise funds for CF research. A donation will help support the scientific advancements needed to improve treatments, extend lives, and ultimately find a cure for CF. Every dollar counts, and no contribution is too small. Together, we can make a difference for people living with cystic fibrosis and give hope to those who will face it in the future.
 

Thank you for your support. I am incredibly grateful for every donation, every share, and every word of encouragement. Let's keep pushing toward a world without cystic fibrosis!