On October 13th, I will be representing Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) at the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon!  Ronald McDonald House Charities is a nonprofit family & children’s charity dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need.  As a member of Team RMHC, I will be training, fundraising and ultimately running 26.2 miles to help keep families together.

The deadline to reach my goal is fast approaching – October 1!!!!! !  So, I appreciate your support and know that together we can raise money for RMHC.

This story is personal to me.  Several years ago, my husband’s niece, Azzy, had endured years of pain and discomfort from a rare genetic disorder called Neurofibromatosis.  It’s a progressive condition that can affect how nerve cells form and grow.  There is no cure. This disorder is not fatal if there are no complications. Azzy had been treated at multiple facilities and received misdiagnosis after misdiagnosis.  She was eventually transferred to a New York City Hospital for treatment.  While at that hospital, her parents were provided accommodations at Ronald McDonald House in New York City, where they received cooked meals and compassionate hospitality. For them, the Ronald McDonald House was a home away from home.  Her parents found an outpouring of support from staff and other parents who were going through a similar journey with their kids. But more importantly, they had comfort in knowing they could remain close to Azzy while she was undergoing treatment.  It also allowed them to stay connected to her team of doctors.  Azzy eventually developed serious complications because of her disease and was taken back home as the doctors could do nothing more.  Sadly, on May 2, 2020, Azzy lost her battle at the age of 25.

Our story is just one of many stories that attest to the support provided by Ronald McDonald House Charities.  Below is a little information about  RMHC.

Did you know RMHC helps millions of families each year? RMHC helps 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.  That time together is invaluable!  Your donation, of any amount, will not only help me achieve my goal, but will help children stay close to their families when they need it most! ANY donation is appreciated!  $5, $10, $20 can and will be put to use.  Please support my fundraising efforts for RMHC by donating HERE: 

https://support.rmhc.org/site/TR/TeamRMHC-ChicagoMarathon/TeamRMHC?px=1630781&pg=personal&fr_id=1600

Every contribution makes a difference!”

Thank you in advance.

Marie