2008 JACK’S MARATHON TEAM-CHICAGO RECAP
This year, 30 runners from 10 different states joined Jack’s Team and the fight against melanoma. Throughout the months of preparation for the race, team members raised more than $30,000 for melanoma research and awareness. Although they all did not make it to race day due to injury or other life situations, 24 runners arrived to take on the Chicago Marathon. Supporters gathered at the halfway point at the Jack’s Team rally station and cheered the runners on.
The day started in the tent where the team prepared for the race. It was a special milestone for team member, Courtney Breeding, who was marking one year to the day since her lymph surgery due to melanoma. She and her sister trained for and ran the marathon together. Many others had thoughts of loved ones as they started the race.
One of the day’s highlights occurred when team member, Adam Miller, arrived at the rally station. Last year, Adam attempted his first marathon, and, due to a virus and the heat, had to give up the race at the half- a huge disappointment since he was running in honor of a friend who had passed away from melanoma. This year Adam again ran in honor of his friend and again came to the curbside, but instead of surrender, he "took a knee" and proposed marriage to his girlfriend! (He also went on to finish the marathon)
Each of the runners had a unique experience that can only come from running a marathon and all of our runners embodied the Strength. Passion. Focus. that makes them a member Jack’s Marathon Team “family”.
Many thanks to all, including those who supported our team.
