2025 Disneyland® Half Marathon Weekend
Gina's Ray of Sunshine
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Honoring My Hero: Running with Love and Hope My name is Michael, and my journey with cancer changed my life in ways I never expected. In November 2019, my world was turned upside down when my mom, Eugenia "Gina," was diagnosed with stage 3/4 kidney cancer. The news hit us hard, but amidst the uncertainty, there was a silver lining—the unexpected blessing of the Covid lockdown. During this challenging time, I was able to be by my mom's side without the usual worries of work, thanks to the ability to work from home. I became her caregiver, her advocate, and her source of strength as she navigated treatments and battled through the pain. Despite it all, her spirit remained unbreakable, and her smile continued to light up our days. For a while, it seemed like things were looking up. She fought with courage and determination, showing me what true resilience looked like. But in May 2021, the cancer returned with a vengeance, spreading quickly and taking her away from us. Losing my mom was devastating, but her strength and love continue to guide me every day. She was not just my mother; she was my hero. In her honor, I run. I run to keep her memory alive, to carry forward her spirit of perseverance, and to support others who have faced similar battles. This 5k is more than just a race for me; it's a tribute to all cancer survivors and a heartfelt remembrance for those we've lost. Together, we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, raising funds and awareness, knowing that every step we take brings us closer to a future where cancer no longer holds such power over our lives. My mom's journey may have ended, but her impact on me and on others lives on. She taught me that even in the darkest moments, there is strength in love and hope. As I run, she is with me—in my spirit, in my heart, and in every mile I conquer. Join me in honoring the fighters, celebrating the survivors, and remembering the loved ones we've lost. Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time. My wife was my rock during this ordeal, giving me strength and comfort when I needed it most. My dad stood steadfastly by my mom's side throughout her battle. My sisters, with their unwavering positivity, sought out every possible way to help her. As a family, we rallied, just as Mom always taught us—family first, from cradle to grave, friends as well as kin. Each of us contributed our positivity and strength, taking turns lifting Mom's spirits. Let's continue to keep her in my spirit and I will always remember her in my heart The money our team raises helps the American Cancer Society in so many ways. It's helping fund innovative research. It's providing free information for people dealing with the disease. It's providing rides to treatment and places to stay for people who have to seek treatment far from home. In short, our money is helping save lives. Consider donating to our team and helping advance the cause.
Join us. Donate today. Together, we'll be a part of making a difference in this important cause.
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Gina's Ray of Sunshine
Ranking
8 out of 12 teams
Donate to Gina's Ray of Sunshine
Help the American Cancer Society fund cancer research, patient support, and advocacy efforts to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
$1,305.37 raised of $1500 goal
43 days left
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Honoring My Hero: Running with Love and Hope
My name is Michael, and my journey with cancer changed my life in ways I never expected. In November 2019, my world was turned upside down when my mom, Eugenia "Gina," was diagnosed with stage 3/4 kidney cancer. The news hit us hard, but amidst the uncertainty, there was a silver lining—the unexpected blessing of the Covid lockdown.
During this challenging time, I was able to be by my mom's side without the usual worries of work, thanks to the ability to work from home. I became her caregiver, her advocate, and her source of strength as she navigated treatments and battled through the pain. Despite it all, her spirit remained unbreakable, and her smile continued to light up our days.
For a while, it seemed like things were looking up. She fought with courage and determination, showing me what true resilience looked like. But in May 2021, the cancer returned with a vengeance, spreading quickly and taking her away from us.
Losing my mom was devastating, but her strength and love continue to guide me every day. She was not just my mother; she was my hero. In her honor, I run. I run to keep her memory alive, to carry forward her spirit of perseverance, and to support others who have faced similar battles.
This 5k is more than just a race for me; it's a tribute to all cancer survivors and a heartfelt remembrance for those we've lost. Together, we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, raising funds and awareness, knowing that every step we take brings us closer to a future where cancer no longer holds such power over our lives.
My mom's journey may have ended, but her impact on me and on others lives on. She taught me that even in the darkest moments, there is strength in love and hope. As I run, she is with me—in my spirit, in my heart, and in every mile I conquer.
Join me in honoring the fighters, celebrating the survivors, and remembering the loved ones we've lost. Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time.
My wife was my rock during this ordeal, giving me strength and comfort when I needed it most. My dad stood steadfastly by my mom's side throughout her battle. My sisters, with their unwavering positivity, sought out every possible way to help her. As a family, we rallied, just as Mom always taught us—family first, from cradle to grave, friends as well as kin. Each of us contributed our positivity and strength, taking turns lifting Mom's spirits.
Let's continue to keep her in my spirit and I will always remember her in my heart
