In January 2022, Mike Lavelle received a life-changing diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Like many families faced with this kind of news, we were devastated—and we felt helpless. So much about this disease was beyond our control, but one thing we could do was rally together and turn our heartbreak into action.

That year, several family members formed Team Always Lavelle Strong, running the Chicago Marathon in Mike’s name to raise critical funds for ALS United Greater Chicago. The inaugural team—Ariana Lavelle (Mike’s niece-in-law), Eileen and Bruce Honicky (sister- and brother-in-law), Brian Honicky (nephew), and Ben Kennedy (nephew)—raised over $28,000 towards supporting ALS research, advocacy, and patient services.

Mike passed away in November 2023. He is remembered for his incredible strength, resilience, genuine humility, sense of humor, and deep love for his family.

In 2024, Kyle Lavelle (nephew) and Patrick Saber (nephew) brought Team Always Lavelle Strong back—this time in Mike’s memory. Together, they raised close to $25,000 for ALS United Greater Chicago, continuing the fight for those living with ALS today.

In 2025, we’re honored to continue the mission with a new team:
Meghan McKee (daughter), Ariana Lavelle (niece-in-law), and Abe Melendez (brother-in-law). They are joined by Nicole Walker, a friend of Ari’s, who is running her second marathon with TeamALS in honor of her Uncle Glen.

We’ve been deeply moved by the support we’ve received from family, friends, and our community. It speaks volumes about the kind of person Mike was—and the impact he had on everyone around him.

This is more than just a marathon.

We run because showing up gave us strength then—and still does.
We run to support everyone who has been touched by this disease—past, present, and future.
We run for Mike, and with hope that one day, an ALS diagnosis will no longer be a terminal one.

Please consider supporting our team and help us make a lasting impact.