On November 7th, I will be running in the 50th New York City Marathon and I’m proud to be running for an amazing organization, The Brain Tumor Foundation (BTF). BTF is a non-profit organization that guides and supports patients, families and caregivers touched by a brain tumor. BTF also raises awareness about the need for the early detection of brain tumors. Following the 2018 Marathon, myself and friends were provided the opportunity to visit one of the BTF pop ups for a completely free brain scan from BTF, which gives invaluable peace of mind to families like mine affected by the disease.
This year is even more emotional and impactful, as it’s the 10th anniversary of losing my father John T. Wholley to a battle with Brain Cancer. Not a day goes by where I don’t think about him or his infectious energy and joy for his family and life. I’m extremely fortunate to have had a father like mine who was a two sport athlete at Trinity College, playing both golf and football, ran a successful CT Small Business of the Year and, what he’s most proud of, a father who always put our family and others first.
In his honor and like he would have, I’ve dedicated myself to raising awareness and valuable funds to help families get the support they need when they’re affected by a brain tumor. I’ve been able to lean into such an incredible network from family, friends, lacrosse, colleagues to raise over $20,000+, from a strung together Quidditch event in high school until now. It never ceases to amaze me how generous you all have been and can’t thank you enough.
As I begin training for hopefully my last marathon (until I hit the finish line and decide I want to do it again) I’ve set a meaningful goal of raising $3,420. So 1.) if you’re in NYC, please text me and ask to join a run. I have about 350 miles to crush before Nov 6th and would love some company 2.) if you’re able, please consider donating any amount you feel comfortable to help me hit my goal of $3,420. I’ll proudly wear my dad’s #42 on my back for race day and make him proud.
