Help Sean raise money

My Decision

I have decided to sign-up and run the Pittsburgh Marathon (26.2 miles) on May 7th, 2023.  I am doing this as part of a charity fundraiser for the American Cancer Society DetermiNation.  The goal is to continue to bring awareness to the cause, help with continuing research and assisting those fighting this ugly disease.

My Reason

My reason is simple: my Sister-in-law, Christie Nadzam, who is currently fighting Stage 2 triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma at the age of 38.  She has inspired me with her bravery, positive outlook, and "we won't quit" attitude." Christie, we love you and know you are going to defeat cancer!  I hope I make you proud and look forward to sharing this memory with you for many years to come.  You have so many people in your corner - people only maybe you know, people only I may know, people that we both know, and people that neither of us know through mutual friends.  We all support you, care about you, and love you!

How I Became A Runner

My wife, Stefanie Priore, was the runner when we first started dating.  I would cheer her on from the finish line and often wondered if this was something I could see myself doing.  We started doing 5Ks together and then I thought, "there is no way I could ever do a 10K." I signed up for the Great Race 10K in Pittsburgh and then I thought, "There is no way I could ever do a half marathon."  I'd sign up for my 1st half marathon in 2014 and always thought, "there is no way I could ever do a full marathon." Fast forward to 2022, I have completed 13 half marathons and ready to take on this next challenge.

The reason I decided to run half marathons was to show our child(ren) that you can do anything you put your mind to.  I will never forget the moment of seeing my oldest son, Greyson, at the finish line of what felt like a never-ending race back in 2014.  

During COVID, I had an opportunity to run 2 virtual half marathons from my driveway in Economy, PA, to my work location in Warrendale, PA.  What I didn't know was how motivating it was to have a support group behind you as my wife and children were waiting for me at the halfway point - something that would never happen on a big race scale.

... and lastly, "Thank you!"

Thank you if you made it this far in the story.  I plan to document my entire journey and invite you to join my Facebook page to follow along with us.  I plan to provide updates on Christie, the training, and also the fundraising campaign.

Please consider donating to the cause (even if $1) - we would appreciate it more than you know.  If you are unable to donate, we understand as we continue to navigate around this difficult economy.  My ask is that you keep Christie in your thoughts and prayers as she continues on her journey.

I also wouldn't be able to do all of this without an amazing support group within my immediate family - my wife, Stefanie, and my sons, Greyson and Wesley.  See you at the finish line!  I love you!

Motivational Quote

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift – that’s why it’s called ‘the present.'” - Eleanor Roosevelt