2026 Chicago Marathon

Almost exactly a year and a half ago, while feeding our seven foster kittens, I told my husband Ben that I was going to run a 5K. I hadn’t run a mile since high school, and to be honest, I wasn’t sure I could do it. Since then I've run 4 half marathons, 2 10ks, and 2 5ks.  Running has given me far more than finish lines, medals, and my "free" banana. It’s reminded me that I’m allowed to put myself first, that progress matters more than perfection, and that the only person I’m striving to outdo is the one I used to be. Needless to say, I caught the running bug.

Why Live Like Roo?

Live Like Roo is a remarkable 501(c)(3) organization that supports families whose pets have been diagnosed with cancer. They provide both financial and emotional assistance, helping cover costs like treatments, medications, and end-of-life care. They also send specially curated care packages that include blankets, toys, treats, even McDonald’s gift cards to animals facing cancer.

One of their programs that resonated most with us is Serenity’s Wish. This program helps pet parents with hospice and end-of-life decisions, supporting palliative care and even cremation when needed. 

This cause is deeply personal to me, especially now. In September, we lost our beloved cat Max to cancer. The diagnosis came as a shock and heartbreakingly, we had less than 48 hours between learning his diagnosis and when he crossed the rainbow bridge. 

But in that short time, we were able to give Max what he deserved: compassionate, loving care right in our home. It was an immense privilege to hold him in our bed, with tuna in his teeth, wrapped in his favorite blanket as he passed. The gift of a gentle, dignified journey was one of the most important things we could do for him.

Call to Action 

Running the Chicago Marathon goes far beyond just those 26.2 miles.  It’s for the person I discovered I could become through running (and the 600+ miles I will run during training), it’s for Max, and it’s for every family that Live Like Roo supports.

If Max’s story, my journey, or the mission of Live Like Roo resonates with you, I’d be incredibly grateful for your support. Every donation helps provide comfort, care, and dignity to pets and families facing the unimaginable. Your contribution directly funds treatment grants, care packages, and end-of-life support for families who need it most.