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

For those unaware, my father and my grandmother passed away from early onset Alzheimer's disease. The thought of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease is something I have chosen not to dwell on because it's pretty depressing and it's always been "so far away" in time to me. However, in recent years the reality that my time with my family could be taken away from me in 20 years, that I might not recognize my husband and children before I turn 70, is unsettling, to say the least. So when I decided to run the Chicago marathon and the only way I could enter the race is through a charitable organization, I looked up to see if there were any more spots left with the Alzheimer's Association. Lucky for me, I was able to secure a spot on the Alz Stars Team. It's a full circle moment because after helping start the RIVALZ powder puff football game for AA many moons ago with my sister and friends, I have another unique opportunity to help give to the organization.

Last year I started training for my first marathon, NYC, in April. For Chicago, I'll have a full year of runs, thousands of miles, under my belt. My goal is to run a sub 4 hour race, knocking off at least 22 minutes from NYC. I hope you will support my efforts by making a donation to my fundraising page. 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.  Honestly, no donation is too small... $10, $20, it all adds up. Thank you in advance for joining the fight against Alzheimer’s disease with me! xx Kate