Three years ago, my grandmother—my Oma—was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease. It steals memories, personality, and independence, leaving someone you love as just a shell of their former self.

For the past few years, I’ve had to watch as my Oma slowly slipped away. I felt powerless, like there was nothing I could do to help her.

But maybe I can still make her proud.

I’m currently a neuroscience student at the University of Pittsburgh, studying the very disease that has taken so much from my family. I’m also an avid runner and a content creator with a growing community. As I train for races throughout my undergrad, I’m dedicating every mile to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research.

There’s no cure for Alzheimer’s—at least not yet. But research is the only path to changing that. By combining my passion for running, my platform, and my studies, I want to fight back and contribute to the cause in any way I can.

This GoFundMe will go directly toward supporting Alzheimer’s research and organizations working to develop treatments, provide care for families, and, one day, find a cure.

I can’t give my Oma her memories back. But together, we can help others hold on to theirs.

If you’re able, please consider donating or sharing this page. Every dollar—every step—brings us closer to a future without Alzheimer’s.

Thank you for helping me run for something bigger than myself. Thank you for helping me run for Oma.