Lev DePaolo

On November 21st, I'm running the Philadelphia Half Marathon for the third year in a row to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association in honor of my uncle, Perry DePaolo. My Uncle Perry loved his family with his whole heart, always had time to listen, and showed his care constantly. He knew how to hold space for deep conversation and also how to simply enjoy being together; I'll always remember family holidays, sitting around the table laughing until tears rolled down our faces and our sides ached. We all miss him terribly, and we're grateful for the time we had with him. I'm honored to run in his memory.

For the past 2 years, I have felt deeply encouraged and inspired to run next to my Alzheimer’s Association teammates. While I warmed up in our tent before the race, I listened as staff members shared their hope that we can significantly advance Alzheimer’s care in our lifetimes.

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!