United Airlines NYC Half wrap-up (and more)
Courtney Harris, mother of Nora, keeping warm before the start of her first ever half marathon. Courtney’s daughter Nora was diagnosed with Wilms tumor, a pediatric cancer.
We can do hard things. Nora’s mom Courtney was thinking just that as she ran her very first half marathon this past Sunday, March 17th fundraising for Team Maggie’s Mission. Courtney recalled these words she had said to her 4 year old daughter Nora after she was diagnosed with Wilms tumor. It was a reminder to herself of what her child and kids with cancer have to endure and how strong they have to be to go through the harsh and painful treatments.
It’s a sentiment all of our runners were thinking as they crossed off mile after mile in the New York Road Runners United Airlines NYC Half, fundraising for cures to help children “Make it to be an adult.” (One of Maggie’s bucket list wishes, found in a notebook after she died).
For sure, it’s what I was thinking as I ran the longest I have run in well over a decade. My feet hurt, my legs hurt, my lungs hurt, and as always, my heart hurt. But like Courtney, I know firsthand what it’s like for a child facing cancer and there was no stopping any of us on Sunday!
I was thankful to share my story of why I chose to run the race this year as one of NYRR’s “Featured Runners”. Sam Ryan from ABC came by MM headquarters for an interview a few days before the race, listen to it here or by clicking the link below… it included a little bio on NYRR’s official 2024 race app.
Maggie’s dad, my personal superhero joined our team this year and fundraised. Thanks for running with me Steve and setting our blistering fast pace of a sub-12 minute mile.
Steve, Maggie’s dad running through Times Square, plays the superhero part well. He, he.
“Together we “run”raised over $24,000 and counting to help kids…
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Speaking of doing hard things.
It’s going to be 7 long years since we said our last goodbye to our sweet Maggie. But in that time, while we’ve continued to live with broken hearts, we’ve also helped so many children and families through Maggie’s Mission. We hope you’ll continue to support our foundation by attending our upcoming Angelversary Gala. See deets below…
Maggie’s Mission invites you to our Seven in Heaven Angelversary Gala.
Friday May 31st, 6-10pm, Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, NY 11721.
An evening of love and remembrance, honoring Maggie, her incredible spirit, and unwavering love of children. Dust off those flower crowns, throw on your best white-ish boho chic outfit, and step into a world that mirrors the vibrant spirit of the legendary Coachella Festival.
PICTURE THIS.
The stunning Vanderbilt Museum, immersed in vibrant colors, bohemian vibes, and a palpable sense of hope. As you enter the transformed space, you’ll be transported into a world of music, art, and love, reminiscent of the iconic festival that people look forward to all year round, without ever leaving the East Coast!
BUT THAT’S NOT ALL!
As our guest, you will be treated to a night of indulgence. Thanks to our special sponsor and creative partner MMEink, we will be offering top shelf open bar and gourmet food stations with an array of cuisines and delectable treats. It’s sure to be an unforgettable evening that encapsulates the magic of Maggie, the Vanderbilt, and Coachella.
THE BEST PART?
Proceeds from this event are dedicated to pediatric cancer research, treatment, and support services for affected children and their families.
