From tissue typing a donor swab kit to seeing a patient through recovery, a blood stem cell transplant is an expensive journey. Our Team Be The Match® runners play a critical role in making second chances possible for more patients.
See what some of our previous runners have to say about this incredible experience—about not just running a half marathon but saving lives. And check out the photos from last year!
Brian, holding a picture of Spencer |
Brian White
“In November of 2021 my friend, Spencer Shearer, passed away from complications related to a rare blood disease. Spencer was selfless, kind, generous, inspirational, caring. The best of us.
When Spencer was in the hospital, he showed me that hard things don’t become manageable overnight, they take time. They take commitment. You will fail, but you will see progress. He reminded me if I try, and really give my all to something, I can make strides towards my goal.
I knew I wanted to honor this gift Spencer gave to me. So, I decided I wanted to run the New York Marathon and raise money in his name."
-Brian White |
Kerry and Rachel, mother and daughter
|
Kerrie Mummah & Rachel Jacobs
"This year, we are running the Twin Cities 10 Mile race in memory of and to honor Glenyce Zinter, my sweet mom and Rachel's grandma. She passed away February 22, 2022, and our world was forever changed.
It is my fourth year running the Twin Cities 10 Mile and fundraising for Be The Match®. Combining our love of running and fundraising for Be The Match is truly a privilege."
-Kerry Mummah |
Ryan and John, brothers
|
Ryan & John Keegan
"We are running the New York Marathon in memory of our father, John, who passed away from acute myeloid leukemia (AML) on December 25, 2021.
After our dad was diagnosed with AML, our world came crashing down with the emotions of what was next. But after some family discussions with his doctors, we realized his best treatment plan would be a bone marrow transplant.
John was able to donate his bone marrow to our dad, and I ended up matching with a stranger and donating my bone marrow just 9 months later. It was the best and most proud thing I have ever done in my life."
-Ryan Keegan |
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