Friends-

In October 2024, I'll be running the Chicago Marathon to raise funds and awareness with the Parkinson's Champions, part of The Parkinson's Foundation. 

I have been a runner for a few years now, but have never had any desire to run a marathon. It just wasn't something I was motivated to do internally. That changed when I found the Parkinson's Champions. My motivation to train for and complete this race is my Gramma, Roberta Solis. 

Parkinson's has directly impacted my family as my Gramma has lived with - and fought - the disease. I have been so inspired by her resilience, positivity, and commitment to bettering her quality of life. She has undergone experimental brain surgery, joined a boxing club, continued to ride horses, and done daily therapies to maintain the active, joyful life that she had before her diagnosis. 

If you know me, you know my Gramma. I am so lucky in that my grandparents have been a constant presence in my life for the last 34 years. Gramma taught me to ride a horse, took me weekly to Bible Study, came to every performance/graduation/school event, and even baked my wedding cake. I have "This Is The Day" tattooed on my arm in her handwriting, as a reminder of the scripture song we sang together each morning when I was a child. It has become my mantra, a reminder of both my amazing Gramma and the importance of rejoicing and being grateful daily for the gift of this precious life. 

The Parkinson's Foundation makes life better for people living with Parkinson's disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. Studies show that 2.5 hours of weekly exercise, along with medication, can significantly improve quality of life for people living with Parkinson's. 

Thank you so much for supporting in any way that you can!