We don’t get to choose when the big ‘C’ comes knocking on our door. When I was first diagnosed in 2011, after undergoing emergency surgery and beginning chemo treatments, it was uncertain whether I would ever be blessed enough to become a mother.

Two beautiful children later, I am now in remission for nearly a decade. These 26.2 miles are for my Gabriella Jean and Paul Salvi.

To my babies …

I hope you never lose your magic, and that it remains inside your soul right until the very end. I hope you continue to illuminate the world around you with your innocence, and I hope that life continues to get more and more beautiful as you step through it. Most of all, I hope that all of your dreams come true. Mommy loves you.