Help Me Run the Chicago Marathon for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Hi friends,

I'm Michael Medema, a cancer survivor, and this year I'm running the Chicago Marathon on October 11, 2026 to raise money for the incredible work of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Twenty years ago, I ran my last marathon. For years, I've told myself, "I have one more marathon in me." At 63 years old, I finally decided it was time.

Training after 20 years away from running has certainly been challenging, but every mile reminds me how fortunate I am to be here. Last week, I completed my longest training run yet—16 miles. This week, I'm taking on 18 miles, and I'm now running 35–40 miles a week as I prepare for Chicago.

As a cancer survivor, I know how precious life is. Running this marathon has given me a renewed sense of purpose because every mile I run is helping support children and families facing the toughest battle of their lives.

St. Jude's mission is simple but extraordinary: to understand, treat, and defeat childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Even more importantly, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food. They can focus entirely on what matters most—helping their child get well.

Your donation will help:

Thank you for supporting me on this journey. Knowing that every mile I run can make a difference for these children is all the motivation I need to keep going when the training gets tough.

If you're able, please consider making a donation and sharing this fundraiser with your family and friends. Together, we can help St. Jude continue changing—and saving—lives.

Thank you for your generosity, your encouragement, and your support!