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A Message From Kiara Melendez

Cancer has been part of my life in many ways, through people I love and care deeply about. I’ve seen both the grief that can come with it and the gift of getting more time and memories with those who went through treatment. Those experiences stay with you. They change the way you look at time, community, and showing up for each other. Running the Chicago Marathon with Team Gilda feels deeply meaningful to me. Organizations like Gilda’s Club remind people they don’t have to go through something so heavy alone. They create space for support, community, and care for both individuals and families navigating cancer. I’m honored to run for something bigger than myself this year. Thank you for supporting me and helping support the people who need these resources most!

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