Paying Tribute To Shawn By Running For JJ Bledsoe

Hi, my name is Tori and I am running the Rock ‘n Roll Nashville Half-Marathon in memory of my cousin, Shawn, again on April 27th, 2024! I typically run as a St. Jude Hero, but this year I am setting a goal to run in honor of JJ Bledsoe. I need your help to reach my goal!

On December 15th, 2016 my cousin, Shawn Green, passed away at the age of 41, after a long, hard-fought battle with brain cancer. Shawn was the best kind of person. He loved life and he genuinely cared about people. Shawn had a winning personality; his positivity was contagious and his strength and drive were inspiring. Throughout his battle with cancer, I never once heard him complain. When you would ask him how he was doing, he would simply give you a thumbs up and say, “Every day is a good day.” He was the kind of person that I want to be!

Shawn was an avid runner and frequently encouraged me to run too (not always my favorite activity lol). I struggled to think of a way to support him during his battle, but then one day it hit me. He had been giving me the perfect way all along…. RUNNING! I have been running for Shawn ever since. Over the last 8 years I have, improved greatly and I plan to continue honoring sweet Shawn’s memory for as long as I can run. I like to believe that he is running right along with me!

This year I not only want to honor my big cousin’s memory by running, but I would like to run in honor of JJ Bledsoe. I have chosen to run for a reason bigger than myself by setting a goal and fundraising for a sweet, local family in need. I am training to cross the finish line on race day and with your donation we can cross the finish line together! I know, Shawn, would be as proud to help this family as I am!