As I begin to lay out my training schedule for this race, I first have to remind myself of my WHY. Laurie Hoffend is my why. I couldn’t be more honored to be running in memory of Laurie and for the Brain Aneurysm foundation.
Who is Laurie? Let’s take it back to 2001. I was in first grade and my best friend, Jenna’s, family moved to Dallas. Our families became fast friends, but, specifically our moms. My mom, Karen, and Laurie have been the best of friends for 22 years. Mrs. H, as I call her, is what I like to consider “my second mom”. Our moms were inseparable as are me and Jenna. In March of 2022, my best friend lost her mom and my mom lost her best friend. Mrs. Hoffend suffered a brain arteriovenous malformation rupture just 10 days after completing the Austin Half Marathon alongside her family. It was an utter tragedy to have lost her so suddenly- she really was the most loving, caring, healthy and happy person.
I am truly honored to be a part of Team BAF (Brain Aneurysm Foundation) for this year’s event. Throughout my fundraising, I hope to continue to spread awareness about these life altering events. The mission of this foundation aspires towards a life without death or disabilities caused by brain aneurysm ruptures. The foundation strives to keep families and communities whole and keep people in the work force. I want to be a part of educating and providing assistance in any research needed to prevent others from these moving forward. Please support me as I run in the TCS New York City Marathon to raise awareness of brain aneurysms and raise funds for the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.
As Jenna and I grew up together, we were surrounded by avid runners- those being my dad, Marc, and her parents, Laurie and Dan. All being marathon runners, I know that Jenna and I both caught our “running bugs” from them! I will forever cherish the fun times and long runs I got to on with Mrs. H around her favorite lake- Lake Canandaigua! She would be so proud to know that her daughter Jenna and I are, together, running the NYC Marathon in her memory. I know I will be hearing her saying “Go Rachie!!!” as I run throughout the race.
As I currently live in NYC, a few of my absolute favorite things to do are long runs on the east river or west side highway and running in other New York City events such as 10ks and half marathons. My dad has told me numerous times how amazing running the NYC marathon is- he has definitely inspired me to follow in his footsteps and lace up for the race as well. I look forward to completing the race this November while being able to raise money for such an important cause that is near and dear to my heart.
Thank you SO much for helping me go above and beyond for this wonderful foundation. I am counting down the days until November 5, where I’ll be running my first ever full marathon, alongside my best friend, in the city I’ve called home for the last 6 years, in memory of my “second mom”, Laurie Hoffend. This one’s for you, Mrs. H!!
