On October 13, 2024, at 73 years old, I will be running the Chicago Marathon and have opted to run the marathon in support of the American Heart Association as their mission has touched me personally in many ways.

• On September 11, 2008, I had a paralyzing stroke. Fortunately, I received good and timely medical care, recovered fully and was able to run my first marathon 13 months later.

• In 2017, I had very successful open-heart surgery to repair a leaking heart valve and a (PFO) hole in the heart.

• Last but not least, I have had many friends and family members who have been (and will be) impacted by heart disease.

Heart disease is the number 1 cause of death in the United States. The American Heart Association uses donations to fund research, funding more research into cardiovascular disease and stroke than any other private not-for-profit organization except the federal government.

Supported by and benefiting from medical advances and research, I remain an active (slow but steady) runner today. Since recovering from my 2008 stroke, I have completed 22 marathons, including marathons on all 7 continents.

Please consider donating to the American Heart Association in support of my Chicago Marathon effort and their mission, especially if this is a cause that has personal meaning to you too.

And regardless of whether you are able to make a donation at this time, consider getting CPR-certified so you will be prepared to save a life someday if needed.