I grew up as the oldest sister to 3 younger brothers. All 4 of us were born within 4 years of eachother and so needless to say - we did everything together growing up. 

In September of 2020, my 2nd youngest brother Walter passed away unexpectedly from an asthma attack, just 5 days shy of his 20th birthday. It's been almost 2 years since this happened, and over this time I've struggled immensely with how to properly commemorate Walter in a meaningful way. 

Although I have come to terms with the fact that there is nothing that I can do to change the circumstances or bring him back, creating a fundraising page for the disease that took his life feels like a step in the right direction. Walter loved sports and as much as I hate to admit it, he was in fact the most athletic sibling of us all - being the only one to make it to the collegiate level. I know he would appreciate me getting active, which is why I have pledged to run a half-marathon in October in Boulder and will be fundraising for this event both on my race page and this page as well. I want to be able to do something not only for him, but for future generations - asthma should never take anyone's loved ones away from them. This is just the beginning.

Are you participating in a local or endurance event such as a 5k, 10k, 1/2 or full marathon or bike ride? Your accomplishment can help support patients and families managing asthma and allergic disease. By creating a fundraising page you can raise money to support AAFA while training and participating in the event. We can provide you with a t-shirt or help set up a fundraising page - just contact fundraise@aafa.org to request more information or support.