As many of you may know, my grandmother (Babci), was one of the most important and influential people in my life. From infancy through adulthood, she was there to support me in every endeavor. Whether it was academics, sports, hobbies, or even those far fetched dreams, I knew I could count on her to be cheering me on. Not only was she there to provide the utmost support and love anyone could ask for, she also taught me more than she probably ever realized. I learned what dedication, compassion, courage, strength, and tenacity looked like, just simply from watching her. I grew up striving to be just half the person she was someday. She was the strongest fighter I ever knew, and fought her battle with lung cancer with every ounce of her being until her last day with us.

Lung cancer took Babci from our family in September 2022. Despite her endless courage to continue treatment, her will to fight through her worst days, and her never ending hopefulness to hear the words “cancer-free”, she was unable to defeat her illness. Being a nurse, I was able to advocate for her and help navigate a difficult road filled with unfamiliarities of treatment plans, medication side effects, test results, as well as overwhelming emotions and uncertainties. I’m thankful I was able to be there for her, however miniscule my support may have been in comparison to all that she had done for me in the 27 years of my life.

Although Babci is no longer here, I want to continue to show my love for her as well as my compassion and respect for all those currently battling lung cancer. I am excited to be joining the Lung Cancer Research Foundation team to run the New York City Marathon this November 5, 2023.

Please consider donating to this amazing foundation to support the ongoing research for lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. Any donation is extremely appreciated and words cannot thank you enough for your support as I take on this challenge to run the NYC Marathon for Babci- I know she’ll be cheering me on every step of the way!