Dear friends and family,

This November, I’ll be running the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. For me, this isn’t just about crossing a finish line—it’s about honoring someone very dear to my family and supporting the fight against cancer.

Last year, my brother-in-law’s father, Ted, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He received care at the Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center at Northwestern Hospital, under the compassionate guidance of Dr. Mulcahy and her incredible team. Ted fought his illness with remarkable courage and optimism, inspiring all of us. Sadly, in September 2025, Ted lost his battle, and we lost a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend. His passing has left a big void and we miss him deeply.

I made the long-awaited move from Europe to the United States earlier this year to be closer to my family. Ted’s diagnosis gave that decision a new sense of urgency and meaning. Being here during this time has been grounding—it reminded me how deeply important it is to show up for the people you love, especially in life’s hardest moments.

One of the things that has always bonded me and my brother-in-law is our shared love of fitness. Training side by side has been a way to stay centered, build resilience, and support each other through everything. That makes this marathon especially meaningful: it’s a chance to take something we both love and use it to honor Ted’s memory while supporting the place that cared for him with such compassion.

That’s why I’ve decided to dedicate my race to raising funds for the Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center, in honor of Dr. Mulcahy and her team. Their dedication and expertise made a profound difference for Ted and for so many other patients and families. By supporting their work, I hope we can help advance research, treatment, and care for others facing this disease.

I don’t have a fundraising requirement, but I do have a goal: to contribute as much as I can. My hope is to both recognize the extraordinary care Ted received and to honor everyone who continues to face cancer with the same courage he did.

If you feel moved to give, any donation—big or small—will go directly to the Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means the world to me, to my family, and to everyone who loved Ted.

Love,

Alice