Each day, 500 people will be diagnosed with a brain tumor. To show my support, I will be participating in the American Brain Tumor Association's Team Breakthrough Endurance program. Money raised will provide critical funding for brain tumor research and for supportive patient care.

Unfortunately, my family has become all too familiar with the words "brain tumor" in the past few years. In 2012, my Tia Jube was diagnosed with a brain tumor that took her life. After her passing, my family and I began participating in the Brain Tumor 5K every year in honor of my aunt and team Maria Strong. We went through the same heartbreak just a few months ago when my Auntie Donna received the same diagnosis and passed away in December. Having lost two strong, incredible women who were so important to me, I made the decision to run the Chicago Marathon for the American Brain Tumor Association. Though Jube and Donna are no longer with us, their lives have inspired me to raise money for the ABTA so that I can spread awareness of this terrible illness and contribute to the further study of brain tumors.

Preparing for and competing in the Chicago Marathon this year will be a major challenge for me, but I'm so proud to be able to support a cause that I hold so close to my heart. I know that I am not alone when I say that brain tumors have taken the lives of far too many loved ones. Please consider donating to a cause that could change the lives of millions so that no one has to hear the words "brain tumor" again.
You can support me in my efforts by making a donation to the American Brain Tumor Association.

Click on "Donate Now" to donate safely and securely.

And remember, your donation is tax-deductible! You can learn more about the American Brain Tumor Association at www.abta.org. Thank you in advance for your support of my efforts on behalf of brain tumor patients, their families, and the researchers pursuing the breakthroughs.