Why I’m Running is a series of inspirational stories surrounding breast cancer. Why are you running? Submit your story.
Why I Run, Jennifer Kalbfell
I run because 3 years ago I promised my 42 year old sister that when she recovered from ovarian cancer that TOGETHER we would run a marathon. Sadly I will not run this marathon with my sister. I will run instead in her memory, she died several days after I made this promise. I will keep the promise I made and do my best to honor her. I will run with MOJO.
Jennifer Kalbfell
Why I Run, Tony
This race,it’s for sister Elaine,Nancy M.,Sue H.,and Mrs.Drain. A collection of beautiful woman close to my heart. All survivors of breast cancer.
Tony
My Mom, Ileana Desendi
Seventeen years ago and just two months before I married my husband my mother lost her battle to breast t bone cancer. I am walking the half marathon in her honor. My mother was an amazing women with a gigantic heart and love for life. Noone was a stranger to her. Even in her hard times she would says look fo the positive it’s there. My mother taught us that life is a gift that should be lived to it’s fullest and happiness should be shared with those around us. So I am walking the marathon for the first time this upcoming year for you mom. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t think about you. I love you and thank you for being the amazing woman you were. I only hope that one day my children feel as lucky to have a mom like me as I do to have had you as my hero and role model.
Kisses and Hugs, Ileana
I'm Running for My Mom - Deva Diaz
My mom died of breast cancer when I was 9 yrs old. She was 32. I am running because I want to to support other women who have experience with this disease. I am running because I can.
Deva Diaz
Why I Run, Audra
I am running for my mother who is a breast cancer survivor. When I heard about this race I knew I had to do it! I thought if my mom could battle cancer I can run a marathon. I know when I am running I will think about the tears, the fear, the loss of hair, the surgery, the tubes, the chemo and her brave face who smiled throughout it all. She is my strength and I run for her!
Audra
My Running Partner and Friend
I’ve run dozens of races to contribute to the search for the cure for breast cancer ... The Race For The Cure, The RITA Race and this past February, 26.2 With Donna. I’ve been extremely fortunate in that breast cancer has not effected anyone really close to me such as familly members or close friends. That is, until now.,, When I begain my training for the 26.2 With Donna last year I gained many things. Strength, endurance, self-confidence, and one other thing I hadn’t counted on. A new best freind and running partner, Val. Val and I have covered hundreds of miles during countless pre-dawn hours together not only getting our bodies ready for one of the biggest challenges of our lives, but also getting to know each other and forming a deep and lasting friendship. Three weeks ago Val was diagnosed with breast cancer and now faces an even more daunting challenge. For me her fight becomes my fight and breast cancer has become a very personal enemy. Last Saturday Val was on the sidelines cheering me on at the Race for the Cure. This Sarurday will be the first time I will run a long 16 mile run without Val there to share the experience. She may not be able to run by my side, but she will be in my heart every bit of the way and I will run with a little bit more determination than before. I’ve decided to use another hobby of mine to help fight breast cancer. I love to bake and plan to sell what I call my Pink Ribbon Cheesecakes. All my profits will be donated to the National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer in honor of Val and all those who are living with breast cancer. The saying goes, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Well, I make triple chocolate cheesecake! I know my running partner will return to training as soon as she is able. In the meantime, I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other to help fight breast cancer one step at a time. I love you, Val and can’t wait to have you back by my side. Luanne Kovacs
Luanne Kovacs
Atlantic Beach, Florida
Running for Past, Present, and Future
Plain and simple, they need us. One day it could be me.
Kimberly Church
Mom and Grandma
My mother and Grandmother give me strength; the strength to train for and complete the Marathon. My Grandmother died of Breast Cancer when she was only 53, 35 years ago. I still think of her daily for the strong wonderful person I remember. My mother is bedridden, taking morphine daily for the pain she suffers as she struggles with what little time we have left. But she still smiles; she continues to bring joy. It is unfair they were struck with this disease; As their son and grandson, I can love and honor them. Which I do. I run for them. I run for all who survive, and those that don’t. Last year as I crossed the bridge near the finish, I passed so many survivors walking in celebration of their surviving and their life. To each I gave a congratulations and great job. The smiles and pride were so big; I carry them with me. This event is a wonderful and carthartic one for all who are touched by it. It is an honor to start; it is an honor to finish.
Robert Frary
26.2 with Shannon
I met my fiance through marathon running, and she has just recently beaten breast cancer (at the age of 26). She wanted to run with me, but isn’t quite back to marathon running yet, so it will be a very special race for me.
Matt
Why I Run, Tracy Gooden
I am running because of my Mom, Linny. She battled breast cancer for 7 years and lost that battle 4 years ago. She was the strogest woman I know. She taught me so much. I have previously ran in two other 1/2 marathons and Mom was my biggest fan. This is the first race I have done since she died. Not only will this be physically hard but emotionally as well. I know she would be so proud of me!! I love you Mom!!
Tracy Gooden
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