Marathon for Jill: A Run Against Cancer

Hello, everyone!

Please consider donating to support my new friend, Valerie, who is bravely fighting metastatic breast cancer. In memory of my sister Jill, I am fundraising for her to run my first marathon! Your contributions can make a significant difference in her journey. I have met with Valerie twice already, not only has she become a close friend of mine, but she has inspired me to become the best version of myself. I am determined to assist her with the additional expenses that come with battling cancer. My pup Casper and I, have been training everyday to get myself in shape for this 26.2 mile endeavor.

Valerie’s good friend shared this summary of some of her recent struggles:

Valerie's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. For years, she poured her heart into caring for children in the Newport Mesa school district, becoming a beloved figure in the community. Her dedication and compassion touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her, including countless friendships that have lasted throughout the years. But life took an unexpected turn when Valerie received the devastating news of late-stage cancer. The prognosis seemed bleak, and she was forced to leave behind the role that had given her so much purpose and joy. Not wanting this diagnosis to define her or burden others around her, she chose to keep this diagnosis confidential. Carrying this secret and the loss of her calling were heavy burdens to bear, but she found solace in the unwavering love and support of her high school sweetheart. Through the darkest moments, he has stood by her side, offering comfort, laughter, and unwavering support. Throughout Valerie’s journey of treatment and recovery, although there have been difficult moments, she has been defying the odds with remarkable progress that even her doctors find astounding. Though the road ahead remains undefined, Valerie's resilience, determination, and humor are beacons of hope for all who know her. And in a twist of fate, paths crossed with a serendipitous connection over social media. Sparked by a shared experience of battling cancer, Valerie commented on one of Brett’s posts about his beloved sisters. And when Brett pledged to run a marathon in her honor, it was a gesture that spoke volumes of the true kindness of a stranger. Valerie knows this was God’s blessing bestowed on her to find an “angel in waiting”, that is Brett. Valerie's story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, love, faith, and the kindness of strangers can light the way forward. She has generously given love and kindness to all who cross her path. And as she continues to fight with unwavering strength and grace, she inspires all those around her to embrace each day with hope and courage.

On April 22, my big sister Jill would be turning 42. In 2013, she lost her battle to breast cancer, joining my father losing his battle with pancreatic cancer two years earlier. However, our good news is in 2016, my younger sister, Annie, successfully won her battle with breast cancer, largely due to the awareness gained by witnessing Jill and my father, Greg’s struggles. Jill, my best friend, mentor, protector, she was my everything - she passed away at the age of 31, leaving her husband and their 2 1/2 year daughter.

I miss my sister, Jill, dearly, I think about her everyday and this is my way to honor her for her birthday, while helping to make a difference in battling cancer. 

Thank you for your support in honoring Jill, helping to give assistance to a Valerie,  amidst her own breast cancer battle and pushing me to run my first marathon!


LETS GO!!!!