This September 13–14, I’m climbing the Rocky Steps for 24 hours straight. Not for glory, but for those who should still be here.

As one of Legacy of Hope’s sponsored 24-hour athletes in the 8th annual PHL24 endurance event, I’ll be running in memory of three incredible young people we lost far too soon. Their stories fuel every step I take:

• Dr. Robert Duffy, my friend and colleague, was a pediatric dermatologist who had just finished fellowship at CHOP. He was only 32 when he passed away in May. Robby wasn’t just a gifted clinician, he embodied the heart of this profession. We once diagnosed a 3-month-old with leukemia together. That infant’s mother could barely afford food to produce milk or transport to the hospital. Robby made sure she wasn’t alone.

• I’m also running for my best friend's brother, Brenan Cullimore, a 26-year-old third-year medical student who died unexpectedly this year from Brugada syndrome. He was on the path to becoming a remarkable healer.

• And for my boss' son, Jacob Manders, a kind and adventurous spirit whose life was cut short in a hiking accident.

Their legacies, and the struggles we’ve seen families face, are why Legacy of Hope matters so deeply to me.

Why We Run

Legacy of Hope ensures that no cancer patient in Philadelphia or Camden goes without food, housing, transportation, or basic support while undergoing treatment. To date, they’ve prevented hunger for over 7,700 cancer patients and family members, and that number grows every day.

This year, the PHL24 fundraising goal is $250,000. That money will help build the David N. April Emergency Patient Support Center and continue providing direct aid to patients when all other options have been exhausted.

I Will Not Quit

This 24-hour challenge will be grueling, but it’s nothing compared to what so many families face every day. I promise to show up, keep moving, and honor these lives with every step.

I ask for your support. Whether through a donation, sharing this cause, or simply cheering us on, you’re part of this fight.

Together, we’ll leave a Legacy of Hope.