The Fundraising Page of Alexandra Shaw

My name is Lexi Shaw and I will be running the 2026 Chicago Marathon. This is my first time running any marathon and I will be running with Gilda’s Club of Chicago (GO TEAM GILDA!). This is a huge honor to be running for Gilda’s and for raising money that I know will go to an organization that makes a meaningful, powerful impact on its community. I am looking to raise $2,500 this year! I am a Chicago Public School Special Education Teacher who loves to spend time with her family (my husband is also running the Chicago Marathon and our daughter joins us on runs)! My running began as a way to become the strongest version of myself and to push myself to do something challenging. I’ve come back to running during post-partum as a way to get strong again not only for myself but for my daughter and family. Running has allowed me time to connect to myself, my community, and as a way to explore different parts of what makes Chicago so incredible. Part of what makes Chicago incredible is the different organizations that have strong roots within their community and beyond. That is why I am excited to run with Team Gilda! “Gilda’s Club Chicago complements medical care with FREE, diverse programming, including virtual and in-person activities for easy community access. We've witnessed the profound impact of connecting individuals and families navigating cancer. Our services provide a secure space for sharing experiences, fostering understanding, and promoting emotional well-being.” My personal connection to Gilda’s Club is through my incredibly strong and inspiring mom. She has found Gilda’s Club Minnesota to be a place where she can go and be with others impacted by cancer and feel both understood and supported. Through the different opportunities that Gilda’s has to offer, my mom has been able to join a community where she can decompress and process through how cancer has impacted her life. Our family has been incredibly grateful for the space that Gilda’s has provided for my mom as it has brought new opportunities, a chance to practice new skills, and a place where she didn’t have to explain her cancer – she could be herself. “No one should face cancer alone” is the mindset of Gilda’s Club and it is one that I am proud to run for. I would love your support as I prepare for the Chicago Marathon. Every donation made will go to Gilda’s to support funding for workshops, support groups, social opportunities, and more. My fundraising goal will help in creating a space that can bring a bit of peace and calm to someone. "Community is stronger than cancer"!!! When making a donation, be sure to check with your organization if they do a corporate match! Donations are tax deductible. LET’S GO TEAM GILDA AND F*** CANCER!