Hello.  My name is Katie Kilcullen, and I am mom to a wonderful bunch of kiddos who all inspire me to take challenges I would never take or ever think possible.   

For this challenge, it is my daughter, Annie, who inspires me in so many ways, but in particular to run distances that I never thought possible, starting with 5ks in my 30s and working to ½ marathons in my 40s.  It is because of her and for her that I will be running my 1st marathon.  

Annie is 17 and lives with Angelman Syndrome.  Annie walked on her own at age 10, and although she can’t run on her own yet, I believe that one day she will–because she has done things that none of our family ever thought possible.  So, my personal challenge is that I will continue to run crazy distances until her walk becomes her run.  And it is for her and because of her that I will be running the Chicago Marathon, along with my sister and best friend, Amy Heil.  

Annie–

Aunt Amy and I will cross the finish line on October 9 FOR YOU.  I know you will be clapping and cheering us on because that’s just what you do.

Please consider supporting Annie and the Angelman Syndrome community with a donation.  You will change lives as our Angels have so profoundly changed ours.

Thank you!