This November, I will lace up my running shoes and take on my biggest challenge. Running the New York City Marathon has always been my dream, and I am lucky enough to join Team ALS United Greater New York. If I’m being honest, this race is about more than just the miles. It is about resilience, love, and honoring the incredible life of my uncle Joseph “Joey O” Orefice. 

In June 2020, my uncle was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is a progressive nervous system disease that has no cure yet. But if you truly knew Joey, you knew that no diagnosis could ever take away his light, his strength, and his love for the people around him. He was the kind of person who made everyone feel like family.

Even in the face of ALS, Joey never stopped fighting. He chose to face every challenge head-on and was a testament to what true perseverance looks like. As I train for this marathon, I carry his strength with me every step of the way. When my legs are tired, doubt creeps in, and the miles feel impossible, I think of him. I think of how he never gave up and how he pushed through even when things got tough. 

I am so grateful to run for Team ALS because I get to run for those who no longer can, to raise awareness, and to honor the fight my uncle never backed down from.

Let’s commit to getting 1% better every day for Joey, for ALS families, and for a future without this disease. 

Together, we can make a difference. Your donation, big or small, can help fund life-changing research, critical support services, and advocacy efforts for those affected by ALS.

Thank you,

Kristina Rivera