To my friends and family:

Alzheimer's disease is very close to my heart. My family and I watched my grandfather struggle with Alzheimer's disease for several years before he ultimately passed in 2010 from complications of the disease. I believe it is one of the most difficult diseases to watch a loved one go through as the person you once knew slowly disappears. This disease also has a large impact on their caregiver and those around them. My family always talks about how you lose someone with Alzheimer's disease twice: first when the disease takes over and the person you once knew is no longer there and second after the person physically passes. I am running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in memory of my grandfather with the hope that a cure for Alzheimer's disease is within our reach.  

By participating in this event, I've committed to raising awareness and funds to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association®.

Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk and we must come together to change the course of this disease.

Please support my efforts by making a donation. All funds raised benefit  the Alzheimer's Association and its work to enhance care and support programs and advance research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer's disease.  Thank you for joining the fight against Alzheimer’s disease!

Not only will this be my first marathon, but it will also be the most meaningful road race I have ever challenged myself with. I appreciate your support and encouragement! 

With love,

Alex