Miles for Marty

When Everything Changed
March 2024 marked a turning point in my life. My dad-my hero, my rock, and one of my
closest friends-was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. The memory of that day is still vivid.
My mom called, her voice filled with concern, asking me to take my dad to the ER because he
was in excruciating pain. Over the years, we'd made numerous trips to the ER due to his heart
issues, so I thought I was prepared for another long night of waiting.
But this time was different.
The doctor came in, and with clinical precision, delivered the words no family wants to hear:
"It's cancer. Stage 4. I'm so sorry." In that moment, my world shifted. Yet, even then, I clung to
the hope that this was just the beginning of another miracle. God had healed my dad
before-surely, He would do it again.
Dad was admitted to the hospital for a week of tests, consultations, and prayers. When we finally
brought him home, a treatment plan in hand, my siblings and I stepped into the roles of full-time
caregivers. I accompanied him to every appointment and watched as his incredible compassion
shone, even during his own treatments. He would engage other patients, offering smiles and
encouragement, despite his own pain.
Some of my most treasured memories are from those long days of sitting with him. As his body
weakened, his faith grew stronger. We talked about life, purpose, and the dreams he had for the
future. One of those dreams was to support families with children battling cancer. His heart
broke for them, and he was determined to make a difference.
But God had a different plan.
By June, the chemo was no longer working, and my dad's body began to fail. The pain became
unbearable, and the doctors recommended hospice care. On June 14, 2024, my dad graduated to
heaven. While my heart aches with the loss, I take comfort in knowing he is whole and pain-free
in the presence of the Lord.

A Vision to Honor My Dad
On one of my morning runs, as I prayed through my grief, God gave me a vision-a way to
honor my dad and carry on his legacy of compassion and faith. That vision became 100 for 100
in 24: running 100 miles in 24 hours to raise $100,000 for childhood cancer.
The funds will support Lighthouse Family Retreat, an organization that walks alongside families
navigating the unimaginable challenges of childhood cancer. It's the very ministry my dad
dreamed of partnering with.

Why 100 Miles?
Because my dad was a force of nature. He taught me the value of hard work, stepping outside my
comfort zone, and going the extra mile-not just for myself but for others. Miles for Marty is my
way of honoring his incredible legacy by helping those he cared about deeply.

Have I ever run 100 miles before? Nope. But I'm stepping out in faith, just like my dad taught
me.

Join Me
I'd love for you to partner with me in this journey. You can donate, become a sponsor, or even
run some miles alongside me. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of families battling
childhood cancer.
Let's honor my dad's legacy by bringing hope to others. My dad loved to start the morning with
a cup of coffee, so we will be starting from Starbucks at 12655 Birmingham Hwy, Milton, GA. 

See you there! Love, Trudy