Hi! My Name is John Maciolek - aka Bug. On September 12th and 13th, I am climbing the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Art Museum for 24 continuous hours as a Sponsored Athlete for Legacy of Hope during their 9th annual endurance event, PHL24.

This is my 1st year participating for the full 24 hours in this incredible event, but I have been climbing with my mom for the last 6 years! I climb in honor and memory of my grandfather, Peter C. McVeigh, or Poppy Pete, a man who lived a life of service to others and dedicated himself to ensuring the most vulnerable in our community were taken care of.

PHL24 is built on resilience, community, and showing up for others when they need it most — just like my Poppy Pete did. Alongside 30 dedicated athletes, I'll be climbing with the grit, compassion, and community-driven resilience that Philadelphia is known for. PS - Go Birds!

We climb because others are in the fight of their lives.

Legacy of Hope provides emergency support to cancer patients and families when all other resources have been exhausted — ensuring families have access to fresh, healthy food, heat, hot water, housing support, and other critical necessities during the most difficult moments of their lives. To date, we've prevented hunger for over 8,200 cancer patients and family members living in Philadelphia.

This journey won't be easy, but our commitment is unwavering. And I promise never to quit. The 24-hour athlete team remains steadfast in our resolve to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who have nowhere else to turn.

We promise to leave our Legacy of Hope.

Check out Legacy of Hope's Emergency Patient Support Network — it is literally changing lives and providing hope every day. I am grateful for your support, which directly helps families facing impossible circumstances.

With gratitude,

John