Jessica (Jesse) Plonka

I'm fundraising for my Dad

Throughout my life, my Dad (David M. Plum) encouraged me to push harder, look farther, and dream bigger. He was quiet in the ways he supported me, but I always knew he was watching. He feels a lot like the road beneath my feet when I run. With every step, I push myself to be more, and every time my foot lands, I know the pavement is there to catch me.

My dad, who passed away on February 24, 2026, at the age of 88, lived with multiple forms of dementia, including Lewy body dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. I feel him every day, and on every run, I know he is there—watching over me and quietly catching me.

After completing the Chicago Marathon with Alzheimer's Association Stars in 2022 and the Berlin Marathon with Tuesday’s Children in 2023, I took a break. This year, though, my dad is calling me back to the road—and for a meaningful cause. By supporting others affected by Alzheimer’s, I am honoring him, a man who also completed 25 marathons in his lifetime. It is a privilege I take seriously to run with the Alzheimer's Association in the New York City Marathon. 

Thank you to my husband, Bobby, and three children for supporting me through this journey and helping me stay committed to the cause. By participating in this event, I've committed to raising awareness and funds to advance the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association®.

Currently, more than 6 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease, and that number is expected to grow to nearly 13 million by 2050. Our future is at risk, and we must come together to change the course of this disease.

Please support my efforts by making a donation. All funds raised benefit the Alzheimer's Association and its work to enhance care and support programs and advance research toward methods of treatment, prevention, and, ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer's disease.  Thank you for joining the fight against Alzheimer’s disease!