I heard of Tell Every Amazing Lady® via social media and word of mouth in the past, but I first got involved in the fall of 2022. My mother, Mary Pat, had recently passed away after battling ovarian cancer for 8 years, and my friend suggested we sign up with Team Tell Every Amazing Lady® for the upcoming NYC Half Marathon. I thought it would be a great opportunity to find some therapy in running, while also raising money and awareness for an incredible organization whose mission means so much to me. Not only was completing the 2023 NYC Half a great personal achievement for myself, but on top of that, Team Tell Every Amazing Lady® was able to raise a significant amount of money for ovarian cancer research and awareness. I had such a wonderful experience working with Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®, meeting the team, and making some noise about ovarian cancer, both on and off the course!
My goal for the half marathon is to raise as much money & awareness as possible for Tell Every Amazing Lady® in order to provide support for those currently battling ovarian cancer, as well as survivors, caregivers, and the families of those affected. Having witnessed my own “Amazing Lady” battle ovarian cancer for as long as she did, I understand the hardships that many have gone through, are going through, and will go through. If I can make a positive difference in their lives, even in the smallest way possible, I’ll consider my efforts a great success.
What I love most about running isn’t the physical act of running at all, but the mental challenge that it provides. Running has never been my favorite activity, but I’ve always enjoyed the process of cultivating my mental strength to run farther and faster than I think I can. 13.1 miles is a long way, but the motivation to provide support and inspiration for those that need it the most, all while honoring my mom, will certainly push me to keep going.
If I had the power to make a difference in one thing related to ovarian cancer, it would be awareness. Too many women are often diagnosed with ovarian cancer when the disease is already in its advanced stages. Because it is still so difficult to diagnose, it is imperative that women are as aware, educated, and proactive as they can be as early as possible. If we can make some noise about the signs, symptoms, and best resources for early detection, we can help to increase the survival rate of this deadly disease, and ultimately save lives
To donate to Henry, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s 2024 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon fundraising page. To apply for a future marathon, or to learn more, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s half-marathon page today.
