I'm ready to run for Gram.
I'm teaming up with the Parkinson’s Champions for the 2024 NYC Marathon in honor of my grandmother, Marlene Karl, and her battle against Parkinson’s disease. On November 3rd, I will run 26.2 miles across NYC to raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation. Gram once shared that “Parkinson’s may eventually take over my body, but not my soul, or my love for family and friends.” I’m running with the Parkinson’s Champions to channel her spirit, soul, and love into supporting the Parkinson’s Foundation, so people can overcome Parkinson’s disease someday.
Gram was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2016. Upon diagnosis, Gram was determined to fight and slow its progression. She adopted an exercise regimen centered around Rock Steady Boxing -- a non-contact, boxing-based fitness program for people battling PD supported by local volunteers. This exercise group provided stability, both in the physical sense of balance and strength as well as with the sense of community. She also pursued voice therapy to offset the impact on vocal projection. This allowed her to continue singing in the church choir until her tenure reached 41 years. Since the disease progressed in recent years, Gram now faces advanced challenges and physical limitations. Amidst the progressing challenges, Gram’s resiliency keeps her committed to Rock Steady Boxing, physical therapy, speech therapy, and beyond. Throughout this journey, Gram and Pap have consistently engaged with the Parkinson’s Foundation of Western PA. The educational events and resources provide great support for building their knowledge and staying current with therapies and treatments.
Anybody who knows Gram knows that she is always the first to help others and demonstrates how to serve. Gram is a longtime advocate for people with special needs, and she spent 23 years volunteering as an event coordinator on the board for TRY – A Special Needs Organization. She has been a parishioner at St. Alphonsus in Wexford for 51 years, and she took on many roles to consistently serve the church throughout this time. She has also always selflessly cared for and assisted numerous family members, friends, and others as they faced health and age-related challenges.
As one of Gram’s ten grandchildren, I can attest to the unwavering love and support that Gram has given, and continues to give, to each of us. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my support for Gram and her journey with PD by running with the Parkinson’s Champions in the 2024 NYC Marathon.
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 the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's. I’m running for Gram, and all people with Parkinson's, because this disease is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Thank you for your support!
P.S. Many companies match donations made to the Parkinson's Foundation, and company matches can be credited to my fundraising campaign! If you submit for a company match, please let me know with a copy of the match confirmation, and I will share it with the Parkinson's Foundation for crediting. Thank you again for all your support!
Parkinson's Foundation Federal EIN/Tax ID: 13-1866796
