Nicole Latini

Running for Alan ❤️

I started running after my dad, Alan Latini passed away after fighting colon cancer for 3.5 years in 2022. Anyone that knew my father knew him as charismatic, witty, caring, loving, and someone that would do anything for his family. He was the strongest fighter I know, going through multiple years of immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, and clinical trials fighting every day to stay alive. He never once complained, never once said he was in pain, but only fought with gratitude and grace. 

I miss my dad more with every passing day. Every milestone, every birthday, and every holiday has a hole in it- a reminder that he is not here and a reminder he should have been. Losing him made me realize how important and special he was to the world- not many people can look such devastation in the face and only come out with gratitude and hope. My dad was a bright light in the darkest days always and that is how he will always be remembered. 

I went on my first run ever the week following my dad's death. Running quickly became an instrumental part in my coping with grief, even though I was awful at it. Over time, I made it a goal to use my running through grief to give hope to others, in honor of my dad. This year I have been given the honor to fundraise for World Cancer Research Fund, an organization that uses funds to research cancer prevention. I am thrilled to be running for them and know how proud my dad is of me. I know for a fact he will be there, guiding me through every challenge and through race day. 

Every day we have a choice to show up for others in our family, our community, and our society. My dad showed up every single day for all of us. I am choosing to train and show up every day, even when I don't want to- for him, for all those fighting cancer, and for all the families suffering from grief. I will be showing up on marathon day with your support with this in mind. 

Thank you for choosing to donate to cancer research, and thank you for loving my Dad. ❤️