Hi, I’m Becky. In October 2025, I’ll be running the Chicago Marathon to raise funds for the American Heart Association. This cause is close to my heart due to my personal connection to heart disease, my Dad.
When I was two, I lost my dad to cardiomyopathy. He was intelligent, tech-savvy, a loyal family man and a lover of nature. Even though I was young, his loss made me aware of the importance of heart health.
While genetic testing wasn't available in his time, I later learned I didn’t inherit the heart issues he faced. However, I choose to run and stay active to prioritize my health.
Running has transformed my life by lowering my resting heart rate, improving my cholesterol and strengthening my heart, all of which help prevent heart disease. Beyond the health benefits it connects me with nature, allows me to explore my community, and fosters connections. What I once dreaded in high school has become a grounding passion.
This marathon is more than just a personal challenge, it’s an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for heart disease. Heart disease is preventable in many cases, and with the AHA’s research and education efforts, we can make a difference.
The American Heart Association (AHA) is dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Every 34 seconds, someone dies from heart disease. The AHA has made significant strides in improving heart health, achieving a 15.1% reduction in deaths from heart disease since 2018 (American Heart Association, 2025).
The funds raised through this charity will support lifesaving heart research, education, and advocacy to help prevent conditions like cardiomyopathy, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Help me honor my dad’s memory through supporting this life-saving cause. By supporting the AHA, we can help ensure fewer families have to endure the loss that my family faced.
With all my heart,
Becky
