Running a marathon is no easy feat but running it for a good cause can make it all the more meaningful. For Sven, a dedicated runner, and caregiver, his inspiration to support Imerman Angels came from his personal experience with cancer. In 2007, his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, and Sven found himself in a lonely and isolated position as her caregiver. It was then that he discovered Team Imerman Angels, a non-profit organization that matches cancer fighters and caregivers with mentor angels who have gone through the same cancer journey. This connection inspired Sven to start running marathons and other races for IA, raising awareness and funds to support their mission.
Sven’s dedication to Team IA is evident in his marathon attire, which includes angel wings, pictures of cancer fighters & their families pinned to his back, a bright pink fuzzy hat his wife wore during chemo, and rainbow socks. The rainbow socks are a symbol of the diverse community that Imerman Angels serves, the many cancer types, and members of the LGBTQ community. For Sven, running in his outfit is a reminder that the marathon is not just about his personal experience, but about the community that touches us all.
2011 marked the first year of Sven’s efforts where he inspired to run marathons and other races for Team IA. “I love telling people about Imerman Angels and the work they do and at the same time raising funds to support their mission,” says Johnson. By the time he runs the Madison Marathon (103rd marathon overall), he will have participated in 217 various races for Team IA, 96 of those being marathons.
One unique way that non-profit organizations like Imerman Angels can raise funds is through the Madison Marathon’s non-profit program. This program offers a unique code to non-profit organizations that, when redeemed by runners during registration, results in a $5 donation to the organization. This is a great way for runners to support their favorite non-profit while also participating in a fun and challenging event.
If you’re interested in supporting Imerman Angels (code: IMERMAN) be sure to enter their unique code during registration. And if you’re inspired by Sven’s dedication to running for a cause, consider joining Sven’s efforts or another charity running program for your next race. Together, we can make a difference.
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