Lacing Up for Hope: Meet the Runners of #TeamEE Racing for CF Breakthroughs
In just a few weeks—on November 23 and 24, 2024—our unstoppable #TeamEE runners will lace up their sneakers, hit the pavement, and take on the Philadelphia Marathon. But they’re not just running for personal goals or to chase a finish-line thrill. They’re running for something bigger: a mission to raise crucial funds for cystic fibrosis (CF) research and bring hope to the 10% of the CF community that’s still waiting for life-saving breakthroughs.
This year, we’re thrilled to rally our largest #TeamEE yet, with 30 passionate marathoners, each bringing their own spark, story, and dedication to the team. Some are running to honor loved ones, others for the joy of the challenge, but all share one powerful goal: to make a life-changing difference for the final 10% of people with CF still in urgent need.
Today, we’re excited to introduce you to a few of these remarkable members of the #TeamEE crew. They’ve got clever training tips (anyone up for stroller resistance training?), unexpected playlists (because High School Musical hits differently on mile 10), and a whole lot of heart.
Eddie Higgins
Hometown: Ardmore, PA
Day Job: Data Scientist at Google
Race Background:
I’ve done the Philly half a few times and also ran marathons in Boston, Chicago, and New York.
What Inspires Me to Run:
Staying fit and getting to spend time outside…and Strava social pressure.
Why I’m Running for EE:
Anything that brings us closer to treatment options for those with CF who need them is worth every effort. Running for EE is a way to be part of that change.
Training Tip:
A double-BOB stroller with two kids is the ultimate resistance training—plus, my little trainers keep me moving!
Top Tunes:
I often run to ‘Bluey’ or ‘Super Kitties,’ thanks to my young training partners.
Support Eddie’s campaign here.
Constance Besnier
Hometown: Originally from France; now Philadelphia, PA
Day Job: Clinical Research Program Manager at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
Race Background:
I’ve never run a half-marathon before; in fact, the longest run I have taken on was an 8k in 2021. Julia, Emily’s sister, encouraged me to join, and for EE, I couldn’t say no.
Why I’m Running for EE:
The dedication of the KG family and the EE community is deeply inspiring. Running to give a better chance of a breakthrough for the final 10% is a no brainer.
Training Tip:
When motivation dips, rely on discipline—even if you are not motivated, discipline will get you in your shoes and out running.
Top Tune:
My personal running playlist is pretty eclectic, but Elton John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’ and Eurythmics’ ‘Sweet Dreams’ never fail to keep me moving.
Support Constance’s campaign here.
Sarah Bennett
Hometown: Originally from Westport, CT; now New York City
Day Job: Middle School Improv Teacher & Executive Director of The Harlem Stories Project, a 501(c) 3 that creates original theater out of stories.
Race Background:
This will be my third Philly Marathon, and I just ran my 16th full marathon last weekend in Washington, DC. I’ve run the half with EE before, and running for a cause so close to my heart is such a privilege.
Why I’m Running for EE:
Every part about running for EE is a thrill—from the mission to the pride we all have in crushing the course in our EE swag—raising awareness and championing the incredible work EE does.
Top Tune:
Currently, my running playlist is dominated by the soundtrack of High School Musical 3: Senior Year. We’re all in this together!
Support Sarah’s campaign here.
Kruti Doctor
Hometown: Midwest native; now NYC
Day Job: Senior Financial Analyst
Race Background:
I ran the Chicago half-marathon, but this is my first full marathon!
Why I’m Running for EE:
My fiancé has a rare CF mutation and is among the final 10% awaiting a breakthrough and I want to support the cause and spread awareness.
Training Tip:
Hydrate!!
Top Tune:
Hip-hop and rap are my go-to beats for training.
Support Kruti’s campaign here.
Interested in supporting our runners in their race to make a difference? You can help fuel their journey by donating directly to their fundraising pages. Every dollar raised brings us one step closer to a breakthrough that will change lives for those with CF in the final 10%! Let’s cheer them on and show our support as they run to bring us closer to a cure!
To donate to all of #TeamEE or support an individual runner of your choosing, click here.
