Joel Kampfe

Running a Marathon (ack!) for my Dad

My dad, Chris, taught me how to be creative, grateful, and fearless. He never had to lecture me about any of those things. He simply lived them every day. He was playful, funny, and full of unforgettable one-liners that have stayed with me my whole life. One of my favorites: “It’s not a chore, it’s play-work!”

We lost Chris to Alzheimer’s, but the way he lived, with curiosity, gratitude, conviction, and confidence, is something I carry with me every day. This year, I’m honoring his life by running the NYC Marathon and raising money to help fight this devastating disease.

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!