My love for running was reignited almost two years ago while I was on a deployment. When I returned, I decided to sign up for my first marathon: the Philadelphia Marathon. Through them, I raised money for AACR. I had never heard of the organization, but learned more leading up to the marathon. Their team was extremely welcoming the morning of the race and when they asked about my connection to their organization I opened up about losing my father in law to prostate cancer in 2016. He had a larger than life personality and talking to him was guaranteed to make your day better. I regret that my kids will never get to know their Lolo and his unconditional love. 

Several of my Aunts have been lost to cancer as well and one of my siblings was impacted earlier this year when some cancerous cells were discovered during a routine check-up.

Combining my love for running with a chance to raise money for AACR allows me to feel I've contributed to the fight, and every little bit helps. 

We need you to help create a world with more research and less cancer by joining the AACR Runners for Research at the 2024 Marine Corps Marathon. Team up with AACR Runners for Research to raise awareness and funds for research on over 200 types of cancers.