This is my big story about why I’ve set up a GoFundMe for The Tokyo Toy Museum. I ran my first Marathon in NYC fifteen years ago because my Mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. My world was shattered as my Mother was my best friend, my hero and our families rock. I needed to do something to cope and honor her at the same time. I became hooked after my first NYC Marathon fifteen years ago and I have fundraised every year since for Alzheimer’s.

My Mom would say “I know your doing something really big for me.” After qualifying for Boston I learned about The Six World Marathon Majors. (New York City, Boston, Chicago, Berlin, London & Tokyo) So this Sunday in Tokyo I will be achieving another promise to my Mother - 5 years after her passing. This Tokyo run is extra special to me as my Mother met my Father in Japan on a Navy tour of duty and it is where they were engaged. Without them meeting, I would not be here today.

Tokyo Marathon is a difficult entry and after many failed attempts with the lottery, I was given entry to fundraise for The Tokyo Toy Museum. This charity resonated with me because in Tokyo at the museum the elderly volunteer and guide the children. Ironically it is a role reversal with caring for those with Alzheimers- the young care for the old.

I am super excited for this adventure in Tokyo. Although I am naturally a bit nervous, I can already feel the happy tears streaming down my cheeks at the finish line. I dedicate this 6th star run to my parents, my Paul, all my running teammates who have inspired me on this journey and my 2 special buddies Adrian and Alex and Mom of course who will be cheering me along the route.

Please consider a donation if it’s in your means as the children are our future, and who doesn’t love a good toy.

Truly grateful…CAROL COTE HOLMES