Welcome to my fundraising page, and thank you for taking a moment to share in a story very close to my heart. In October 2024, I'm running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon to raise funds and awareness in partnership with the Parkinson's Champions. I'm calling my race "Pacing for Parkinson's" in loving memory of my grandfather, Bill Hammond - a husband, a father, a grandfather, a U.S. Air Force veteran, and the greatest man I have ever known - who died after an extensive, painful battle with Parkinson's Disease.
My goal is to raise $5000+ to aid those fighting this horrific disease.
The world lost a remarkable soul from this disease – my grandfather. A man who lived life with a gusto that was contagious, who believed in the power of fitness to invigorate the soul, and who taught me that health and fitness weren’t just about physical wellbeing, but a celebration of life itself. His final years, however, were a stark contrast to the vibrancy with which he lived. Parkinson's Disease, a relentless and debilitating condition, dimmed his once bright flame, taking away his mobility, his independence, his cognition, and eventually, his life.
But even in his absence, his spirit remains, and he continues to teach me resilience and the strength to find hope in the hardest of times. It's this undying spirit and relentless pursuit of "1% better every day" that brings me here, to the Chicago Marathon, running not just in his memory, but to ignite a torch of hope for thousands battling Parkinson's every day.
Every stride I take in this marathon, every mile I conquer, is a step towards honoring my grandfather's legacy – his zest for life, his unwavering positivity, and his belief in the strength of the human spirit.
Your support means more than just a donation to a cause. It symbolizes a united front against Parkinson's, a shared belief in the power of remembrance, and a collective effort in celebrating and supporting life in all its phases.
Each contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to a world where Parkinson's no longer steals moments, memories, or mobility from our loved ones. Your donation will directly fund research for a cure and provide much-needed support to those affected and their families.
Join me in this journey, not just as donors, but as partners in hope, as advocates for health, and as champions in keeping the spirit of our loved ones alive. Together, let’s make each mile count, let’s run for a cure, and let’s do it in memory of those, like my grandfather, who taught us to live and love with all our might.
Thank you for your generosity, your support, and your belief in this cause.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Will
