I am running the TCS New York City Marathon to raise funds in support of pediatric cancer research and to help Tackle Kids Cancer.  All money raised will benefit the Children’s Cancer Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health.

This cause is especially close to me because I treat these patients as a doctor in the pediatric hematology & oncology department at Hackensack Meridian Children's Health. I see first hand the critical need to do all we can to help these patients, their families and continue to advance research and treatment options for future patients. No family should ever hear they are out of options.

I never cease to be amazed by the bravery, resilience and strength my patients have. Their lives are upended and though it is difficult, they muddle through. Through the change in routine, not going to school or having fun with friends, through being tired, nauseated and in pain. Invariably, they find a way to fight through. That, to me is amazing. 

Every day in my job it is different. Some days I see the success of treatment and the joy of remission. Sometimes the cancer is recurrent, progressive or causes significant complications. I find solace in those moments in joining my families in their grief. Through it all, my role is to help the family through the complications, through the challenges, fear and grief.

I know first hand how a medical diagnosis can change your life. I started racing in 2013 as a way to get fit for my wedding. I started registering for races and was hooked, like so many. In early March 2015, I started experiencing blurry vision among some other symptoms. I underwent an evaluation that spring and was diagnosed with multiple scleorsis. But I didn't let it stop me. I underwent oral and intermittent IV steriod treatment and was able to get back running a few months later. Since then, I have run 8 half-marathons and am so excited to be on #TeamTKC for the TCS New York City Marathon.

I still experience some blurry vision and tingly feet when I run, but I push through and run because I want to show it can be done. Though it is nothing in comparison to the challenges my patients face, I hope my story can inspire them in some way to keep fighting through their illnesses and show that anything is possible.

I hope you will join me in this fight. All money raised benefits our pediatric cancer research critical work. It will have a direct impact on the therapies and treatments I have avaliable to help treat my patients. 

Remember…together WE CAN Tackle Kids Cancer! Thank you for your support.