Why Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon...?
The quick answer is the funds raised through the Marathon and 1/2 Marathon makes a difference for the kids served at Nationwide Children's. I know this first hand, because I was one of those kids.. a kid who had a chronic illness and Nationwide Children's made a huge difference in my diagnosis and treatment journey.
Most importantly though... I run in memory of my childhood friend, Mike Engle. Mike was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric cancer and fought the majority of his cancer battle at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Sadly, Michael ended up being put on Hospice/Palliative Care at Nationwide Children's and lost his battle with cancer in October of 2014.
I run for the kids, who can't run for themselves. The kids who don't have the opportunity to live a normal life outside of their illnesses. The kids who sadly leave this earth way too early.
This year, I am raising money specifically for Hospice Care at Nationwide Children's Hospital. We all wish that Hospice and end of life care wasn't needed at a children's hospital but sadly it's a reality that many families have to face.
Nationwide's Hospice Care's belief is that the quality of life is not determined by the quantity of one's days but by the way in which those days are lived.
I ask that you partner with me to make a difference in the lives of these children and their families as they deal with the unthinkable.
Please consider supporting me and the most meaningful marathon in the country by making a donation today.