Help Dileesha raise money

Hi Everyone! My name is Dileesha Fernando, and I am so excited to announce that I will be running the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Half-Marathon on October 20th! Running a marathon like this is something I didn't think I would do, but I'm glad I overcame my anxieties and chose to sign up and participate, as it is such an amazing opportunity to connect with my community and give back in some way! :) 

So, my goal is to raise $3000 for the SickKids Foundation and the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. I have chosen these organizations because they resonate with my passion for improving healthcare for vulnerable individuals such as young children and older people. As an aspiring healthcare professional and current master's student in Health Systems Research at the University of Toronto, it is important to me that funding for healthcare research and improvement of the quality of care continues. Thus, making donations, even if it's small, makes a significant difference in the lives of individuals impacted by various diseases. 

Additionally, I specifically chose to include the Alzheimer Society of Toronto because, currently, my grandmother is struggling with dementia. Watching the person I knew, who was vibrant, funny, and loving, change drastically over the last few years has been challenging. Dementia takes away one's personhood, and from the perspective of loved ones, watching that unfold is difficult. Hence, my grandmother and those who are currently living with dementia are the reasons I am running this marathon. I wanted to donate to this organization because doing so would support their work in increasing dementia awareness, research, and improving services. Hopefully, it will meaningfully change the lives of individuals struggling with dementia, such as my grandmother. 

I sincerely appreciate any support you can offer for your chosen organization—every small contribution makes a significant difference. 

Thank you so much; your support means a lot! So excited for October 20th!