Running for my 3 M’s
Donation protected
Hello!
After months of much training, I will be running the Miami Marathon this Sunday, January 28th! While this race holds much personal value for me, I’ve decided to add another level of purpose for all 26.2 miles that I will be running. I will be running this weekend in remembrance & honor of significant people and causes that have had a profound impact on my life, while raising awareness. I’m running this Sunday…
- for Madrina. - My godmother/“Madrina”, Lissette, was a light on this world that would instantly brighten any room. From her nurturing spirit to her heart of gold, she was truly a special individual. She was ultimately like a second mother to me and my best friend. After an unexpected seizure, a rare diagnosis, and multiple tests & rounds of radiation, she unfortunately passed away on July 21, 2019 to leptomeningeal cancer… a day that forever changed my life. Leptomeningeal cancer is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the meninges, which are the three membrane layers that protect one’s brain and spinal cord. The prognosis of this cancer is extremely poor as it metastasizes throughout a part of the body and then into one’s cerebrospinal fluid, eventually continuing to grow throughout the brain and spinal cord. Regardless of the fact, I always say cancer never beat my Madrina, she beat it through her constant example of strength, resilience, and love. A third of the proceeds raised will be donated in Lissette’s honor to the American Cancer Society as this year will mark 5 years since her passing. I forever carry her in my heart and will be running every mile in her honor.
- for Mental Health. - The prevalence of mental health remains at a rise, while affecting millions across various demographics. From suicidal ideation to depression, there are a wide variety of disorders affecting this marginalized community. While there have been significant efforts to increase awareness and address the stigma, the conversation needs to continue and there is still much to be done. A third of the proceeds raised will be going towards a non profit organization that I’ve been working with called “Your Purpose Project”. The primary mission of “Your Purpose Project” is to fill in the gaps of what government and insurance companies do not fund for this marginalized community, while raising awareness to increase their accessibility to traditional, holistic, and alternative care. Being that this is a community I have a strong passion in advocating for as I serve them through my daily work as a nurse, I will be running every mile to raise funds and awareness for them.
- for Mima. - My grandmother/“Mima”, Nilda, was a woman like no other. Like many “Mimas”, she was the heart and soul of our family. She was a loving caregiver who not only cared for her grandchildren but would even take care of other children in her neighborhood to help working parents. From her memorable cooking skills to her love for dancing, shopping, and travel, Mima was a huge light in our lives that always emphasized the importance of family. She was unfortunately diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease in 2009 and progressively lost her brain function. She was confined to a wheelchair and bed for almost 11 years as she later lost all ability to control her motor skills and perform any activities of daily living. Close to six months after my godmother lost her life, Mima passed away on January 25, 2020 due to complications from the disease. She’s someone that I also hold deep in my heart and forever carry on many of the values & love she instilled in me while growing up. A third of the proceeds raised will be donated in my Mima’s honor to the Alzheimer's Association. I am running every mile this Sunday in her honor.. for all those years that she couldn’t stand or walk on her two feet.
I ask that you consider in helping me with this challenge of reaching my goal in a short amount of time… anything helps! As mentioned, I will be spitting all proceeds raised and donating 1/3 to each non profit organization. Thank you for taking the time in reading this and for your consideration in helping me raise proceeds towards the run for my 3 M’s. See you at the finish line!
p.s. Remember to hug your loved ones tight every chance you get and always fight for what you’re passionate about.
Organizer
Tommy Aponte
Organizer
Miami, FL