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Tess' Run4Scott

Tess Clegg / New York City Marathon

I'm running for those impacted by or suffering from Pancreatic Cancer. Specifically, I'm running for Scott and the McKenzie family.

  • $5,518

    Raised

  • $6,500

    Goal

  • 44

    Supporters

  • 40

    Days Remaining

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About Tess' Run4Scott

On 2/22/22, my best friend’s dad, Scott McKenzie, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. I’ve walked alongside my friend, through the ups and downs, trying to wrap my head around her father’s 20+ grueling rounds of chemotherapy, his new diet, what this type of cancer is and why it happens to great people like Scott.

I’ve always had a passion for running - something about the sport draws me in: how it's you against your own mind and only those who are mentally strong can complete hours upon hours of training or master a 26.2 mile course without letting the voices in your head encourage you to give up. 

When you think about it, the mindset of a runner isn't all that different from the mindset of someone diagnosed with cancer. I know Scott had two choices every day when he woke up: to fear the day ahead or to combat the voices and BELIEVE. BELIEVE was Scott’s tagline ever since he was diagnosed (any Ted Lasso fans here?!). Every time he left home, he tapped the ‘BELIEVE’ sign above his garage door, reminding him to fight on. 

Scott continued to believe up until his last day on this side of heaven on July 18, 2023. I told myself that if Scott could wake up daily, choose believing over fear for seventeen months with Pancreatic Cancer, I can honor him through 26.2 miles of pavement, especially for a cause that is dear to my heart. 

This November, you can expect me to cross the New York City Marathon finish line with a ‘BELIEVE’ shirt, inspired by the strongest people I know: the McKenzie family.