By running the Chicago Marathon on Oct 8, 2023, I've committed to raising awareness and funds to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association®.

Currently, more than 6 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease and that number is expected to grow to nearly 13 million by 2050. Our future is at risk and we must come together to change the course of this disease.

My family is personally affected by this disease. My mother suffers from dementia and my father is her caretaker.* Whilst they are in Europe and benefit from good healthcare, reaching out, accepting help and overcoming the stigma and shame connected with Alzheimer and dementia is all the same.

After reaching out to friends both in Europe and here in the US, I have realized how universal Alzheimer and Dementia are! Nearly every family is affected by it! The toll it takes on the patients (they do realize what is happening to them), spouses and partners, family members, friends and caregivers is enormous. 
They all need support. Research into therapies are only one way to support them. Another way are caregiving efforts. And then maybe most importantly, an open ear, understanding, and good advice on how to cope with this tremendously stressfull situation.
I feel that the Alzheimer Association offers the above mentioned support for patients and their families.

To close the circle, running long distances has been the tool for me to deal with stress. I am fairly new to running, but quickly fell in love with the sport as it is so accessible. It teaches me how capable our bodies and minds are.

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!

Sending you all hugs!


Veronika Weithofer


* update January 2023: it was no longer managable for my father to care for my mother at their home. She has been placed into a carehome. Even though the carehome is very good and staff are wonderful, this comes with its own challenges. The transition has been rough for both of my parents. They had been living together for 55 years. But, under the circumstances, it was the right decision for both of them.