2025 Team ALS - Bank of America Chicago Marathon: Hannah Cohen

Hi, and welcome to my fundraising page!

A personal note:

I’m running the Chicago Marathon this year in memory of my Grampie Larry Pfisterer, who passed away from ALS before I had the chance to meet him. Although I never had the opportunity to know him personally, the stories of his life and the deep bond my Grammie and I share have shaped the person I am today. This race is a chance for me to honor him, raise awareness about ALS, and feel a stronger connection to both him, my Mom and my Grammie.

Grampie was a talented graphic designer, and his love for art and creativity sparked my own passion for design. His work inspired me to pursue a career in the arts, and although I never got to see him in action as a professional, I carry his legacy with me every day in the work I do. Running in his honor is my way of giving back to the world that he made more beautiful with his craft.

ALS is a devastating disease that robs people of their independence, mobility, and ultimately, their lives. It also deeply affects the families and loved ones of those diagnosed, as it did with my Grammie, who watched the love of her life endure such an unimaginable battle. By fundraising for ALSUnited, I hope to raise awareness and funds that can help end this cruel disease.

For me, this race isn’t just about running 26.2 miles; it’s about feeling connected to Grampie and keeping his spirit alive. Every step I take will be for him, for Grammie, and for everyone affected by ALS. I hope that by sharing this journey, I can help others understand the importance of supporting ALS research, and bring hope to those currently facing the disease.When I am in St. Louis with Grammie, one of our favorite things to do is art together. If you are able to donate anything to this fundraiser, we will send you a thank you card created by Grammie & I.

I know Grampie would be proud of me, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to honor his memory in such a meaningful way.

More about TeamALS:

I'm joining TeamALS to raise funds and awareness to help fight back against this terrible disease. ALS United Greater Chicago provides much needed patient services resources, funds global, cutting-edge research, and much more in order to help those living with ALS right in our community.

TeamALS is an exciting opportunity for us to work together to support those affected by ALS and to spread awareness of the urgency of our cause and to push for treatments and a cure.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe. The life expectancy of a person with ALS averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis. ALS can strike anyone, and presently there is no known cause or cure.

Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries.

This is why challenging ALS is important to me. To bring hope. To raise awareness. To provide resources and services to families free of charge. I'm asking for your help. Please donate and help defeat ALS!