Hi! My name is Annalena Schmitt and if you know me you probably know how much my grandparents mean to me.

I have always felt incredibly lucky to have grandparents who were so present in my life: from days spent at the lake and watching movies to annual trips to the Bavarian Forest, from theatre performances, moves, surprise parties, renovating homes, dancing and moments of celebration to times of heartache, sickness and moments of difficulty - my grandparents were always there. They have always lived for their family and their unconditional love is the warmest you will ever experience.

All that to say, my grandparents have both played a huge part in shaping who I am today.

In 2023 my grandma got the diagnosis: Lung Cancer. It was a shock for all of us. From the first second of this new life, she fought bravely. She had part of her lung removed and got chemo and was able to fight lung cancer and heal.

In 2024 - during my trip to Germany - during a hospital visit for what was suspected to be pneumonia, the doctors found a very advanced stage of lung cancer in my grandpa as well. At this point, he had already fought cancer in his bladder and still struggled with leukemia. They had to remove half of his lung during an emergency surgery. The next months, my grandpa fought a fight that was bigger than life. He fought until the very end. On February 26th in 2024, surrounded by those he loved most, he peacefully passed. Yet, his memory and his love live on.

My grandparents had to fight this vicious disease at the same time. At the same time !!

To honor both of them and their resilience and love and to help advance research and support other lung cancer patients in getting the help they need, I am challenging myself to run 50k (31.069 miles) to raise 3107€ for the Thoraxstiftung Heidelberg . Thoraxstiftung Heidelberg is a foundation of the Thoraxklinik, the hospital my grandparents both got their treatments. It is one of the largest specialized hospitals for the treatment of lung diseases in Europe and is a subsidiary of Heidelberg University Hospital. Their foundation focuses on scientific research with the intention of implementation in the overall health system. Your support will help fund vital aid to families battling lung cancer.

I have never even run a marathon - so this truly is a challenge. Race Day is November 15th and I will be running in Florida. My grandma will be visiting me in Florida during this time, which makes this run, that I am dedicating to her and my grandpa, even more meaningful.

So - 50k (31.069 miles) to raise 3107€. For my grandparents. For hope. To fight lung cancer!

Thank you for your support.

It means the world.

Annalena