On October 13, I will be representing Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) at my very first marathon – the Chicago Marathon! As a member of Team RMHC, I will be training, fundraising and ultimately running 26.2 miles to help keep families together.

If you've seen me collecting pop tabs over the years, you'll be pleased to learn that you’ve been helping me support RMHC all this time. By actively fundraising and supporting local children’s hospitals through my high school dance marathon and Indiana University Dance Marathon in college, I had the chance to meet and hear the stories of dozens of miracle children and their families. Their perseverance and hope is inspiring, and I know I’m not alone in knowing the importance of staying close to family when you or your loved ones are in the hospital.

Each year, RMHC helps millions of families cope better and focus on the needs of their sick child, allowing them the ability to spend more time with their child, to interact with their doctors, and to make important decisions about their child’s care.

It costs approximately $100 to give a family one night of comfort and support.  Your donation, of any amount, will not only help me achieve my goal, but more importantly will help children stay close to their families when they need it most!

Thank you for your support! 

-Eliza