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Help Dawn raise money

For participating in 2024 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend

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My Story…

Back for year 3 with the AACR Foundation as a Philly Marathon Runner for Research! 


When I was a little girl, I lost my beloved grandmother, Dawn, to cancer. She was nothing short of amazing, and I aspire to be like her each day. I've never met someone more beautiful (both inside and out), loving, and kind. She lived the golden rule. She was the most fashionable, the best cook. She knew so much! I miss her teaching me Greek through Greek Orthodox hymns, and I miss her hugs. I still think about our backyard adventures. I like to think I get my passion for movement from her - she loved her daily walks around the neighborhood. And I'll never forget that waist twister thing that I used to play on when I was little... I'm pretty sure it's still in my grandparents' garage, but I'll stick to my Peloton core classes 😉


People share their fondest memories of her to this day - 25 years later - and when that happens, I especially realize the true loss it's been to live in a world without her. But I smile like this because I am so very blessed to have known her, and keep her legacy and name alive. Since I was so young when it happened, I've spent many of my older years grieving, wishing she was still here, and wondering how different my own life would be had there been a cure or more advanced treatments available then. Running, to me, is meditative, and has helped me to process this (and so, so much more). It's a privilege to run this marathon, year after year, for those who can't, and make my miles count by fundraising for cancer research with the AACR 💚

Here's to a cancer free world with more Dawns 🌅

Donate to help Dawn raise money for 2024 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend’s fundraising campaign.


Recent donors

Donation date Donor name Donation amount
May 13 Dawn Armentani $56.26