Cheering on Our Sisters as They Run 26.2 Miles FTK in the Chicago Marathon!
As Chi Omegas, the University of Iowa Dance Marathon (UIDM) is an organization that we love to support, both on and off campus. On October 10th, 2021, six of our sisters ran the Chicago Marathon to show the world just how inspiring the UIDM is. Regardless of whether they had run the Chicago Marathon before, all six runners had a support team of sisters who traveled to Chicago just to cheer them all on. From the start of the marathon, our amazing sisters’ training, preparation, and diligence paid off as they conquered the 26.2-mile race FOR THE KIDS! Read below to hear each of their stories, as they detail the impact and importance of the UIDM.
“Running the Chicago Marathon was initially the scariest thing I could ever imagine—my nerves were high but so was my excitement. Running through the large crowd getting my name called out and cheered for definitely kept me going, but looking down at my arm and all the mile motivators was really what did it for me. Every time I thought about how excruciating it was getting, I remembered all the innocent lives affected by cancer, and running a marathon is nothing compared to that. I ran so hopefully no child and family ever has to go through that excruciating process someday. I ran for those I know affected by cancer—to show them that even with this comparatively small gesture, we are always in their corner! I’m incredibly proud to have run those miles for the people who need it most, and I’m hoping to do another in the future.”
- Hannah O'Donnell, Junior, 1st Chicago Marathon
“This year was my second time participating in the Chicago Marathon with Dance Marathon. Running 26.2 miles straight is incredibly challenging and painful, but also it is the most incredible feeling to cross the finish line. My last four years participating in Dance Marathon has allowed me to meet some incredibly brave children battling pediatric cancer at Stead. These children were my inspiration throughout the entire marathon and made me remember why I had to keep pushing. My 6 hours of running was nothing compared to the challenges and obstacles these children face on the daily. I am so grateful to have been able to run the Chicago Marathon again for these kids and to do it along with my cousin and other Chi Omega sisters made it so much better!’
- Ciara Feldman, Senior, 2nd Chicago Marathon
“My initial motivation behind running the marathon was seeing my cousin, Ciara, run and how much she loved the experience and all that it stood for. Running the Chicago Marathon and wearing the Dance Marathon uniform was definitely one of the most surreal and special feelings I’ve ever experienced. I wasn’t running for myself — I was running for all the children on the 11th floor who are fighting endlessly to beat pediatric cancer. I was running for the families who have to watch their children face a battle that no one should ever have to endure. I remember looking down at my Mile Motivator tattoo and being reminded that the pain I was feeling was temporary and nothing compared to what pediatric cancer patients face every single day. I ran to show how inspired I am by the resiliency and bravery of those children. I ran because I can’t understand what these families are going through right now, but I can choose to fight and raise awareness for this wonderful cause. I’m so proud of everyone who took part in the event, and I can't wait for what’s to come in my Dance Marathon journey!”
- Jamison Feldman, Sophomore, 1st Chicago Marathon
“Being able to support my sisters and best friends in the Chicago marathon was a one of a kind experience. There were so many moments where I had to take a step back and realize how much love and support family, friends, and strangers were giving to each other. Everyone in the race had their own reasons for running and everyone was coming from such different walks of life! I am beyond proud of all our Chi Omega Marathon runners. Not only did they run for a cause, but they showed how strong, powerful and resilient they were while doing so. All our girls are absolute shining stars that are changing the world!” - Lisa Ratsakanh
“This was the first marathon I have ever been to and it was such an inspiring and motivating event! I lost my voice for the next day or two from yelling and cheering on all the runners. It was very surreal to be in an atmosphere where everyone there is supporting and rooting for one another. But, being able to watch my sisters accomplish something so challenging and incredible was the best part. Their love for Dance Marathon children and families was so apparent on this day. The Chicago Marathon reminded just how awesome humans coming together and loving one another can be!” - Grace Balison
“Cheering on all of my best friends and watching them accomplish this marathon was an unforgettable experience! It was so amazing to watch my sisters run by and seeing their faces light up when they saw us there cheering them on. We made it a fun weekend by going shopping in downtown Chicago, making posters for the Chi O runners, and going out for a carb-loading pasta dinner. You can see the passion Chi Omega has for Dance Marathon through our girls’ determination in the marathon! I am so proud to know and love each and every one of our runners!!” -Libbie Pavon
“Throughout my three years being involved in Dance Marathon, I always looked up to the members and other Chi Omega sisters who ran the Chicago Marathon and everything it meant and stood for. I told myself I was going to do it one year and being a senior and my last year in Dance Marathon seemed like the perfect opportunity. Running the marathon was the hardest thing I have ever done but knowing I was running it for something bigger than myself made it all worth it. Kids with pediatric cancer have to face far worse than 26.2 miles, which inspired me to keep pushing and running the race. The environment was also incredible and was so motivating to have so many people cheering you on and supporting you throughout the race. Running 26.2 miles was not easy, but it was 100% worth it for every single kiddo and family fighting a battle against pediatric cancer.”
-Grace Foxen, Senior, 1st Marathon
Next up on the blog - cheering on the Hawks and our sisters during the University of Iowa 175th Homecoming Week!
Homecoming Week