The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend brings thousands of runners to Minneapolis and St. Paul – but for Team CCRF, every mile carries a little extra meaning. Meet three runners lacing up this year to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research.
Rachael Blair
A medical physicist in radiation oncology, Rachael has seen firsthand how challenging cancer treatment can be for children and their families. She joined Team CCRF to connect her passion for running with a cause close to her work.
“Being able to participate in the race while representing Children’s Cancer Research Fund makes the experience even more meaningful, and I’m proud to be part of the CCRF team.”
For Rachael, running is a way to de-stress, spend time outdoors and challenge herself. The Twin Cities Marathon weekend also offers a chance to run the Minnesota trails and roads she loves while being part of a major local event.
“I’m running for something beyond just my own personal goal, and it motivates me to keep pushing myself.”
Rachael is training for the half marathon with a goal of finishing in under two hours—and says every donation has helped motivate her along the way.
Greg Kaiser
Greg’s connection to childhood cancer is deeply personal. His daughter, Liz, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma as a child, and is now a 20-year childhood cancer survivor. Greg has supported CCRF in countless ways over the years – from volunteering to fundraising and even making appearances as CCRF’s mascot, C.C. Bear.
Now, he’s back for his second year on Team CCRF, taking on the TC 10 Mile.
“Fundraising gives my running a purpose beyond completing the race.”
For Greg, every mile is also a reminder of the children and families behind the mission.
“If my participation encourages even a few people to learn more, donate, or become involved with CCRF, that makes the race especially meaningful.”
Ryan Fahey
Ryan’s connection to CCRF comes through his work as a student research assistant at the University of Minnesota, where he contributes to childhood cancer research. Several projects in his research division are funded in part by CCRF – projects like investigating causes of leukemia and projecting future incidence rates of pediatric hepatoblastoma.
“Fundraising for CCRF was also a great way to leverage my community to help support my career and running passions.”
Ryan is taking on the half marathon with a new goal: finishing under 1 hour and 26 minutes – and hopefully earning a podium spot.
Across three different journeys, one thing connects these runners: they’re running for something bigger than themselves and CCRF is cheering them on with every step!
