Hi friends and family,

In October 2026, I will be running my very first Chicago Marathon. Im running in support of American Heart Association for two very personal reasons.

My best friend lost her mom suddenly to an undetected heart condition. It was unexpected and heartbreaking, and it showed me how quietly heart disease can affect even those we love most.

At the same time, my own mom is currently facing heart health challenges, beginning with high blood pressure. Watching her navigate this has made heart health feel closer to home than ever before.

I’m running with heart, for hearts — to honor those we’ve lost, to support those still fighting, and to help fund research and education that can prevent other families from experiencing the same loss.

Every donation, no matter the size, supports lifesaving work through the American Heart Association and helps bring awareness to how important early detection and heart health truly are.

Thank you for supporting me, for supporting this cause, and for running this journey with me in spirit.

With gratitude,
Nelly Ortiz