This year, I’m preparing to run the 2024 New York City Marathon in support of Tackle Kids Cancer, and in memory of someone incredibly special to me—Carson Philbin. 

Why now? Why this year? 

Let me tell you about Carson and why I’m determined to run this race in his honor. Back in January, while we were celebrating Carson’s 24th birthday in Hawaii, there was a terrible accident, and Carson passed away. Carson meant the world to me, and losing him so suddenly has been extremely hard. 

Carson Philbin was truly one of a kind. He lived life to the fullest, turning every moment into an adventure. Whether it was running or music, being in front or behind the camera, Carson was incredibly talented at everything he did. And he always put 100% into the things he loved. Carson wasn’t someone who just watched from the sidelines. He lived up to his “why not” mantra and made things happen for himself. His talent, ambition, and work ethic opened the doors to more than one once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was incredible to watch him follow and succeed in his dreams.

Carson and I had a special connection. We just clicked, and I knew I wanted him in my life forever. Carson was goofy, introspective, handsome as hell, moody at times, but had the biggest heart and love for all the people in his life. He had a way of lifting me up and constantly inspiring me. 

Why do I want to run the NYC marathon this year? – It all goes back to Carson. Carson introduced me to the world of running, and in doing so, changed my life forever.

Carson's love for running was infectious and undeniable. Just listening to him talk about running was an experience in itself – filled with passion, confidence, excitement, and a genuine love for the sport. Maybe I'm a little biased, but I'm pretty sure he could persuade anyone to give running a try.

Carson was the reason I fell in love with running. BUT, contrary to what Carson would most likely claim, my decision to start running wasn’t motivated by a desire to impress him. Yes, admittedly, before Carson, running never appealed to me. However, it was Carson’s infectious ability to infuse passion into everything he did, particularly when it came to running, that inspired my interest. So after 22 years of resenting the sport, this green-eyed boy’s enthusiasm and genuine love for running turned my skepticism into curiosity. 

I vividly remember the first time Carson convinced me to join him on a run—a memorable, and extremely humbling experience. As I struggled to keep pace, Carson cheered me on. Little did I know that day would spark my competitive spirit and kickstart my journey as a runner. From then on, I was determined not to let myself be bad at running. I challenged myself to run every day for a month, and to my surprise, Carson was right—running is indeed awesome. 

And that was only the beginning… Not only did Carson inspire me to start running, but he also became my biggest cheerleader and coach. He saw potential in me that I didn’t recognize myself, crafting weekly running plans, and encouraging me to push beyond my limits because he knew I was capable. 

Last November, I watched Carson complete his first marathon (with a speedy 2:48 time), which earned him a spot in the 2025 Boston Marathon and guaranteed entry into this year’s NYC Marathon. We made a pact that if I got into the NYC Marathon, we would run it together. And with your support, I’m determined to keep that promise, knowing that Carson will be running alongside me in spirit. 

Running has become a connection to Carson, a way to keep his spirit alive. Your support, in any form, will not only help me reach my fundraising goal but will also help me honor Carson's memory in the most meaningful way possible.

Thank you lots,

Kendall

All money raised is in support of pediatric cancer research to help Tackle Kids Cancer. Benefiting the Children’s Cancer Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health by helping their littlest patients become kids again!

The Children’s Cancer Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health has stood as a beacon of hope for children and families dealing with pediatric cancer…but more can be done. Pediatric cancer is the #1 cause of death by disease among children in the US and only 4% of cancer research dollars are allocated to pediatric cancer. These facts are devastating, but the doctors at the Children’s Cancer Institute are working tirelessly to find a cure.