If you’re reading this, unfortunately, it’s a safe bet that cancer has touched you or a loved one. 

Just two years ago, our family faced the brutal reality of cancer when my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Tragically, he passed away within weeks of learning the news. This wasn't our first encounter with the disease; we previously mourned the loss of two of my uncles who valiantly fought against cancer.

In April 2019, I completed my first half-marathon at Disney World. Inspired, my dad decided he would participate the following year. He dedicated months to training, but the pandemic led to the race's cancellation. Undeterred, he continued training, eagerly waiting for the day he'd earn his half-marathon medal. Unfortunately, the pandemic and his subsequent cancer diagnosis prevented him from ever realizing that dream.

My mom, Laura, and I decided to pick up the torch and run in his honor. Doing for him what he didn’t get to do himself. 

In November 2023, we’ll run the Disney World  “Two Course Challenge” (a 10K and half marathon on back-to-back days). My mother, who swore she’d never do a half marathon again (doing her first in September 2019!), knew she had to when my dad’s favorite Disney character, a small purple dragon called Figment, was announced as the mascot (and medal) for the challenge. 

In January 2024, our journey will take us to the West Coast for the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend. And in April 2024, we're set to conquer 19.3 miles in "Stitch’s Ohana Challenge."

If you’ve ever seen “Lilo and Stitch,” you know that “‘Ohana’ means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” 

This challenge's theme, "ohana," resonates deeply with us, not just because it’s focus on family, but also because Hawaii held a special place in my dad's heart (it’s almost impossible to find a photo of him after 1999 where he’s not wearing a shirt befitting a luau). 

Although my dad couldn't finish his race, as his "ohana," my mom and I are ensuring that he is neither left behind nor forgotten. We run, cherishing his memory and feeling his spirit beside us.

In honor of our efforts and my dad's love for Figment, we've established a fundraising team: Figment’s Fighters. Our aim isn't just to keep my dad's memory alive, but to wage a battle against cancer, hoping that our story of loss becomes increasingly uncommon.

Participating in these events and fundraising allows us to make a tangible difference. We strive to honor those affected by cancer by raising funds for pivotal research and services dedicated to aiding those grappling with the disease.

I hope you'll consider making a donation!

Melissa