“How do you know if someone ran a marathon? Don’t worry, they’ll tell you.” – Jimmy Fallon

For those of you who know me well enough, you probably know one thing which I do not do willingly is run. Despite my best efforts, I reluctantly find myself surrounded by those ailed by this self inflicted and masochistic “running disease”. It’s certainly an odd community but apparently Jimmy Fallon has also had personal run-ins with these so called “runners”.

So why would I even consider registering for such an event as the NYC Marathon? I guess finally the years of resistant exposure have finally piqued curiosity. I also believe that challenging our selves each day, even through small feats help to facilitate positive growth for each of us and just as importantly for those around us. Energy is one of our most valuable resources and investing it even in small actions like smiling at someone passing on the street does matter. I want to dedicate my energy to train for this race with a clear intention and goal.

There are many many associations, charities, and groups with noble causes and obviously there is some level of prioritization in selecting where we put our energy and funds. They all are important. I reach out today to tell you of the group which I have selected to support as a cause which I find close to my heart.

On Nov 3rd, 2024, I am participating in the TCS New York City Marathon to raise funds for a groundbreaking initiative – the construction of sub-Saharan Africa’s first children’s cancer hospital.

It’s disheartening to acknowledge that, currently, 9 out of 10 children diagnosed with cancer in this vast region do not survive. The need for urgent intervention is evident, and that’s why I am running for Shoe4Africa, an organization committed to making a difference.

Shoe4Africa has already achieved a significant milestone by building East & Central Africa’s first Public Children’s Hospital, which has provided crucial care to over 1,000,000 children. Now, we aim to take it a step further by constructing a dedicated children’s cancer hospital.

I am reaching out to ask for your support in this meaningful endeavor. 100% of your donation, regardless of the amount, will go directly to this noble cause. Together, we can make a substantial impact on the lives of children facing cancer in sub-Saharan Africa.

Thank you for reading my message and considering my request. I greatly appreciate any support which you would like to offer, be it monetary, well wishes, or even just using this as a reminder to do something nice for another today.

The curious non-runner,
Steven