My Story…
I’ve always believed that some of the hardest things we choose to do end up meaning the most—and this is one of those moments for me.
I’ve signed up to run my first half marathon as part of the Pittsburgh Marathon, and while 13.1 miles feels intimidating, this journey is about so much more than the distance. It’s about proving to myself that I can do hard things, that I’m stronger than the doubts in my head, and that I can keep going even when it feels impossible.
But the biggest reason I’m doing this is my daughter, Brielle.
I’m running to support UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh—the place that saved her life. Because of the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff there, I get to watch Brielle grow, laugh, and live her life. There truly aren’t enough words to express what that care has meant to our family. In moments that were filled with fear and uncertainty, they gave us hope, strength, and ultimately, more time with our daughter.
Every mile I train for and every step I take on race day is for Brielle. It’s for everything she’s overcome, and for every family who is still walking through their own difficult journey.
This race won’t be easy. There will be early mornings, long runs, and moments where I’ll want to quit. But I’ll keep coming back to why I started—and to the incredible impact this cause has had on my life.
If you’re able to support me, whether through a donation or by sharing this page, it would mean more than I can put into words. Your support helps ensure that other families receive the same life-saving care that changed everything for us.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. 💙
Description
As part of Team Children's, my participation in the 2026 Pittsburgh Marathon supports UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation.
Funds support the patients and families served by UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Last year UPMC Children's Hospital had over 1 million patient visits and many of the programs, initiatives, and resources that make UPMC Children’s so special are funded by philanthropic gifts. Things like distraction therapy which provides patients something else to focus on during their medical procedures, the Child Life Department which provides many activities to create a sense of normalcy for hospitalized children, and the Free Care Fund which covers the cost of medical care for those that cannot afford it. These areas are not covered by insurance, yet are critically important to helping families face the many challenges that accompany a child’s treatment.
Please consider donating to support the patient champions at UPMC Children's! You can donate directly on this page or send a check to the address below and make a note that you are sponsoring my efforts.
UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation
Attention: Pittsburgh Marathon
4401 Penn Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| May 07 | Doreen Lazzaro | $27.48 |
| May 04 | Rosanne Casciato | $54.10 |
| May 04 | Debbie Harris | $27.48 |
| May 04 | Denise | $27.48 |
| May 04 | Amy Rankin | $27.48 |
| May 04 | Alyssa Cerminara | $27.48 |
| May 04 | Jaci Lay | $27.48 |
