Why I Race, by Jackie, a Grateful Parent

I cannot accurately describe how I felt the moment I learned Lucas had cancer. When I asked if he would be OK, the doctors were honest. They did not know. I never thought I would face a moment in which I wondered if my child would die. But that day, and for many days after, I could think of nothing else. The doctors outlined their treatment plan and were available any time I had concerns.

For the next three and a half years, Children’s National was our second home. The first year was the hardest. Lucas was placed into a medically-induced coma and intubated for aggressive chemotherapy treatments. I did not talk to him or hear his voice for seven days. He couldn’t come home for weeks. He missed the first month of third grade and getting to know his classmates. He missed fall soccer and birthday parties.

Today, I am grateful to say that Lucas is a happy and healthy 13 year old. This November will mark two years since he completed treatment. I know my son would not be here without the compassion and expertise of his team at Children’s National.

On Oct. 17, I will run the Race for Every Child: Virtual Edition. This is my fourth year participating, and while the COVID-19 pandemic means this year’s Race will be held virtually, I am thrilled to support Children’s National Hospital once again.

I participate in the Race for Every Child to raise money for the hospital that saved my son’s life. I race so that every family will receive the same extraordinary care. I race to give other families hope.

When you sign up for the Race for Every Child, you join a community committed to ensuring that children with cancer and other illnesses get the care and support they need — just like Lucas did.

I hope you will join us on Oct. 17. Together we can help more children grow up stronger!

Visit RaceforEveryChild.org and sign up today to join Jackie and thousands more for the Race for Every Child: Virtual Edition on Oct. 17.