My name is Isa, and this November, I’m running the Philadelphia Half Marathon in honor of my grandpa, Michael Parks, who has been living with Parkinson’s disease for nearly a decade.

Parkinson’s is one of the most heartbreaking diseases I’ve ever seen. As a kid I gave him the nickname of Tin-Man. If you know the movie Wizard of Oz, you'll understand what I mean. It slowly takes away control of the body, even as the mind stays strong. Watching someone you love go through this… it stays with you.

So this run isn’t just about finishing a race.

It’s about legacy. It’s about research and hope.

More than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s, and today, there is still no cure. But there are scientists, and doctors working every day to change that, and they need our support.

What You’re Supporting:

If you’ve ever loved someone through a health battle, or if you believe in showing up for something bigger than yourself, this is that moment.

Every mile I run is for my grandfather.

Every dollar we raise is for the future.

Thank you for donating, sharing, and supporting.