I’m honored to be running the 2026 Philadelphia Marathon with Team American Heart Association, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is deeply personal to me.

Heart disease has touched my family in ways that have shaped my life. I am running in memory of my Mom Mom, who battled significant heart issues throughout her life and underwent multiple open-heart surgeries. Her strength, resilience, and courage through those challenges will always inspire me. Losing her reminded me how much heart disease affects not only the person facing it, but every family member who loves them.

My dad has also faced his own battle with heart disease, surviving multiple heart attacks and continuing to manage heart conditions today. His experience has shown me how unpredictable heart disease can be and how important awareness, prevention, and access to quality care are for individuals and their families. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to still have my dad here with me today, and I know that with continued research, education, and funding, more families can have the opportunity to hold onto the moments that matter most with the people they love.

I’m running these 26.2 miles in honor of my Mom Mom, for my dad, and for every family that has been impacted by heart disease. Every mile I run and every dollar raised helps support the American Heart Association’s mission to advance research, provide education, and create a future where fewer families have to experience the heartbreak of losing someone they love.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting me on this journey. Your generosity means more than you know, and together we can help save lives and give more families the chance to make lasting memories with the people they love.

With gratitude,

Amanda