ALS is a cause that is deeply personal to me. My granddad passed away from this devastating disease in 2009, and he was someone our entire family loved beyond words. He was born in Brooklyn, and it feels incredibly meaningful to me that I’ll have the chance to run through the very streets where his life began. Watching him face ALS with such strength and resilience, while also witnessing the toll it took on him and those around him, left a lasting impact on my life.

His journey helped inspire me to become a physical therapist. Today, I have the privilege of working closely with patients facing progressive, degenerative conditions such as ALS, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders. I am reminded of my grandfather in the care I provide, striving to support my patients with the same compassion, dignity, and perseverance that he showed.

My granddad was also incredibly competitive and loved sports, so I like to think he’d get a kick out of this challenge and probably expect me to finish with a time he’d consider “acceptable.” That thought will definitely be pushing me through the tough miles.

Running the 2026 NYC Marathon in his memory is more than just a race for me, it is a way to honor his life and continue his legacy. Through this journey, I am raising funds to support research, patient care, and advocacy for those affected by ALS. This cause is not only part of my personal story, but also a central part of my professional mission.

I am running with Team ALS to support those affected by ALS, spread awareness of our cause, and fight for a cure. By partnering with ALS United Greater New York, all the funds I raise will go toward where it's needed most: vital research, community support, and patient services.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive disease of the nervous system that affects cells in the brain and spinal cord. Presently, there is no known cure for ALS.

• Every ninety minutes, someone is diagnosed with the disease, and someone passes away from it.

• 90% of ALS cases occur without any known family history or genetic cause. The remaining 10% of ALS cases are inherited through a mutated gene with a known connection to the disease.

• 55 is the average age of onset with most people who develop ALS between the ages of 40 and 70. However, cases of the disease do occur in people in their twenties and thirties.

• ALS is 20% more common in men than women. However, with increasing age, the incidence of ALS is more equal between men and women.

• Military veterans are twice as likely to be diagnosed with the disease than the general public for yet unknown reasons.

I joined Team ALS to push my physical limits for those who can't anymore. I want to bring hope, raise awareness and make an impact - and you can help me! Please donate, because -

Together, We End ALS!