My first year running the St. Jude Decatur to Peoria run (2022) was an incredibly life-changing experience, so of course I signed up for year 2!! At the end of our 92-mile journey, I crossed the finish line after running 21.5 miles. My goal for 2023 is to run 30 miles.

Why am I running for St. Jude?

My nephew, Johnny (pictured with me at last year's Decatur to Peoria run kickoff), is 4.5 years cancer free thanks to St. Jude and OSF Children's Hospital in Peoria after battling kidney cancer at the age of 2. Because of them, Johnny gets to enjoy a happy, healthy childhood. Currently, he's in first grade at Decatur Christian, plays baseball, and loves the Avengers, Sonic, Power Rangers, and his little sister, Brooklyn, of course.

We are so thankful that Johnny is a survivor, however, for many kids, the battle to survive continues. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to more than 80 percent since it opened 60 years ago--but there is still work to be done.

St. Jude won't stop until no child dies from cancer, and neither will I. Please consider making a donation to help me support kids in the fight of their lives along with their families. Because of my nephew's journey, St. Jude will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you all in advance for your love and support!!!