I am extremely excited to be running the Chicago marathon for the Van Andel Institute, where your donations go towards research of Parkinson’s Disease and more. My Grandpa was diagnosed with Parkinson's a couple of years ago, so this cause holds a special place in my heart. We have always been very close and he has always been one of my biggest supporters. I will always remember the days I would look into the crowd of people cheering me on at the finish line of my cross country and track meets and seeing my grandparents proudly standing on the sidelines supporting me on even if it was a gloomy day outside. I feel more than blessed to call someone as supportive as him a part of my family. My hope is that by raising money to support this cause it will not only motivate me but also my grandpa to continue to push through even on the hard days. I also hope to give him as much support as he has shown me. Running the marathon for a cause like Parkinson’s is such a privilege and I am excited to begin this journey.