Running With Purpose: A Mission to Defeat ALS
Running has always been a part of my life, but the reason I'm running the 2025 Chicago Marathon goes far beyond personal achievement. I’m running to honor the memory of my grandmother, Nancy Connolly, and to support the incredible work of ALS United Greater Chicago in the continued fight against ALS.
My grandmother was diagnosed with ALS in December 2013. She was the kind of person who always put others first, known for her kindness, honesty, and selflessness. Watching her face ALS with strength and grace was heartbreaking, yet her courage became a lasting source of inspiration for me and my family.
ALS is a devastating disease that slowly robs people of their ability to move, speak, swallow, and even breathe. The average life expectancy after diagnosis is just 2 to 5 years. Every 90 minutes, someone is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes, another life is lost. It’s relentless and unforgiving, and it affects people of every background.
But despite how cruel this disease is, there is hope. ALS United Greater Chicago provides essential resources, patient services, and funding for cutting-edge research. Their work brings hope to families like mine and to countless others who face this battle every day.
This is why I’ve joined TeamALS—to bring awareness, to raise funds, and to honor my grandmother’s legacy. Running is how I process, how I heal, and how I contribute to something greater than myself. My grandmother’s strength motivates me to push harder and give more, knowing that every mile I run and every dollar I raise brings us closer to a cure.
The Chicago Marathon isn’t just a race for me; it’s a mission. It’s a way to celebrate my grandmother’s life, to support families living with ALS, and to keep fighting for those who no longer can. Together, we can make a difference, and I hope you’ll join me in this journey—whether by donating, spreading the word, or simply cheering us on.
For my grandmother, and for every family touched by ALS, I run.
Achievements
I've raised $1,500 for Team Challenge ALS!
I've raised $1,500 for Team Challenge ALS!
I Made a Difference!
I supported this event with a personal donation.
Personal Progress:
of Goal
$2,430
Raised
$3,000.00
Fundraising Honor Roll
Anonymous
$20
Brandon Scott Kamp
$25
Brent Blawat
$25
Brittany Carstensen
$25
Cindy Parisi
$25
Dan & Jeanine Grant
$100
David Zurkowski
$50
Douglas Moore
$100
Dr. David Vreeland
$50
Erin Stieber
$100
John Sullivan
$25
Kristin StClair
$50
Laurie Obrien
$100
Liz Spiegel
$100
Mark & Barb Mulliner
$50
Mark Bocchini
$50
Mel & Carolyn Kohler
$50
Melissa and Chris Lameka
$50
Michael J Vreeland Sr.
$400
Mickey Vreeland
$100
Mr. David Zeller
$10
Mr. Jeff Heveroh
$200
Mrs. Jenny Rofrano
$100
Mrs. Kate Subramanian
$150
Mrs. Kim Bonds
$25
Ms. Carol M Hogan
$200
Racheal Bleicher
$25
Robert Meagher
$25
Sam Heveroh
$50
Terry & Tim Koch
$50
Tyler Merton Simmons
$50
Walter Oestmann
$50
