Humbled to share that I have been accepted to run the 2025 New York City Marathon for Team ALS. I am running in memory of my father Richard Mitchell who passed away in December, 2023 after a brief and courageous battle with ALS. My father was my greatest role model, who taught me many lessons. One that has especially stuck with me over the past year and a half has been his belief in measuring oneself not based on accomplishments, but on what you have done for others. On November 2nd I hope to make him proud by running 26.2 miles to raise money for the ALS United Greater New York. This will be the greatest challenge I have ever experienced, but it will pale in comparison to the daily challenges those with ALS endure. 

For those unfamiliar with ALS, it is a cruel disease that robs the body of its ability to speak, swallow, walk and ultimately breathe, all while the person’s mind remains sharp. It effectively makes that person a prisoner in their own body. Within twelve harrowing months, my father passed through each of those stages, and as a family we could do little but watch and love him. ALS can strike anyone at any time, and presently there is no known cure. I am honored to run in memory of my father, who fought this disease with grace and dignity, and to raise awareness about the urgent need for a cure. 

I hope that my efforts will help bring hope to those living with ALS and inspire others to join the fight. My wish is that no other family has to endure the loss my family and so many others have. The fight against ALS is ongoing, and together we can make a difference. As I told my father many times over his year-long battle, “I hate ALS, but I love you”. I have a feeling I’ll be repeating those words many times on race day. Thank you for your support and encouragement.

Best

Eli Mitchell