A Marathon of Meaning

My name is Chris, and I am running in the New York City Marathon in honor of my mother, Joan. She lost her battle to cancer, but her fighting spirit lives on. She faced every challenge with courage and determination, and I want to honor that strength by pushing myself to the finish line. This race is not just about running—it’s about carrying her legacy forward and raising awareness and support for those still fighting.

This November, I’ll be running the 2025 New York City Marathon in honor of my mother, Joan Hale, who passed away on October 23, 2024, after a fierce battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia—specifically the TP53 mutation, one of the most aggressive forms of the disease.

I remember the night everything changed. I was out celebrating my birthday with two of my closest friends, laughing, sharing stories—completely unaware of the storm that was about to come. When I got home, I saw a message from my mom: “Call me when you can.”

She waited until she knew I was home before telling me the news. She didn’t want to ruin my night. Even in the face of her own devastating diagnosis, she was thinking of me. That was Joan Hale—selfless, strong, and full of grace.

Just six months later, she was gone.

The mutation advanced rapidly, leaving us little time—but she never stopped fighting. She faced every moment with a quiet, powerful bravery. Even at her weakest, she protected us from her pain, trying to shield us with love. I am endlessly proud to be her son.

In 2022, I ran the NYC Marathon for the first time. My mom was there—cheering, smiling, waiting for me just past the finish line. She was the last person I hugged after that race, and it meant everything. Running the marathon had always been one of her dreams. She didn’t get the chance to do it herself, so this year, I’m doing the next best thing.

I’ll be carrying her with me—literally. I’ll wear a small locket holding some of her ashes, so she can cross the finish line too. And when I receive my medal, I’ll have her initials engraved on the back. This run is for her.

My goal is to raise $10,000 for the American Cancer Society as part of their NYC Marathon team, alongside my good friend Dave Agosto. Every dollar raised supports vital research, assists families, and brings us one step closer to a cure.

If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, it would mean the world to me. Your support not only honors my mom’s legacy—it helps carry me through this journey. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Make a difference

I’m raising $10,000 for the American Cancer Society to honor her life and help fund critical cancer research and patient support. Every dollar makes a difference.

Thank you for standing with me, for believing in this cause, and for helping carry my mom’s legacy forward.

My Mother Joan

Joan was a woman of unwavering strength, kindness, and resilience. She faced life—and later, her battle with cancer—with grace and courage, always putting others before herself.