Hello, if you do not know me, my name is Alex. If you do know me, then there is a very good chance that you know that one of my best friends was diagnosed with ALS back in 2019. Many of us are familiar with ALS given the viral phenomenon that was the ice bucket challenge in 2014. But, a decade later and the ice bucket challenge in the rearview mirror, there is still no known cure. 

If you are unfamiliar with ALS, it stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is also widely known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. It is a fatal, progressive motor neuron disease that, over time, affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which leads to a loss of muscle control and function. Most cases are sporadic, meaning that they occur randomly, with no known genetic cause or familial history. ALS can affect anyone. 

To help raise funds for global, cutting-edge research and much needed patient services for those fighting ALS, I will be running the 2025 Chicago Marathon with TeamALS. 

When researching charities for the 2025 Chicago Marathon, it was an easy decision to choose to run with ALS United. I support their mission to serve individuals by providing high-quality, personalized care, fostering collaboration within the community, accelerating ALS breakthroughs, and prioritizing the long-term well-being of those affected by ALS. I have until next fall to raise $1,500 for ALS United. But, if I can be honest with you, dear reader, I would like to blow that number out of the water. 

As of November 25th, 2024, I have 321 days until the 2025 Chicago Marathon.

But, unfortunately, I cannot do it alone. 

I need you. 

I need your community. 

And, most importantly, I need your wallets.

If you stumble upon this page, please donate. There is no such thing as too-small of a donation because every penny counts. If you cannot donate, please share this so those with the means to donate can. 

Together, we can defeat ALS!