Fourteen years ago, my beautiful friend Nicole lost her life to ovarian cancer at the age of 39. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of her – her strength, her humor, her stubbornness, and the deep impact she left on all of us lucky enough to love her. I’m running with Tell Every Amazing Lady® about Ovarian Cancer in memory of Nicole, but also to honor the incredible circle of friends who stood together from her diagnosis to her final days – and still stand together today. Our friendship, forged in grief and love has become one of the greatest gifts she left behind. Her legacy lives on in every laugh we share, every memory we retell, and every mile I run. Nicole taught us how to live fully, fiercely, and with JOY.

Running, raising money, and spreading awareness for Tell Every Amazing Lady® is a privilege. Ovarian Cancer is a silent killer, and I hope more women will come to know the signs, listen to their bodies, and feel empowered to advocate for themselves. I am turning 50 this December, and I can still hear Nicole’s voice telling me I’m capable of big things. I believe that running the NYC Marathon with Tell Every Amazing Lady® is her way of nudging me again – reminding me to keep showing up, keep dreaming big, and keep living for both of us. #teamDerrick

To donate to Whitney, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s 2025 TCS New York City Marathon Fundraising Page. You can also access Whitney’s fundraising page directly. To apply for a future marathon, or to learn more, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s marathon page today.