When Alison Joseph’s two sons were diagnosed with Duchenne, she immediately felt moved to do something to help raise money and awareness. Alison, along with her husband William Small and 44 of their family members and friends signed up to run the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and raised nearly $65,000 in just a few months. Since then, Alison has run another Shamrock Shuffle and is currently training for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon this October.

Meet Alison

Why did you choose to join the Race to End Duchenne team?

After my two sons, Hunter (4) and Noah (2), were diagnosed with Duchenne in November of 2017 I knew I wanted to help in any way possible to spread awareness and raise money for all boys with Duchenne.  When I went to the PPMD website, one of the first things I noticed was the Race to End Duchenne program.  I knew this would be a great way to begin getting our friends and family involved in our journey.  We have been blown away at the amount of support coming from our home towns, local community, and people we have never met.  Anyone who hears our story and the stories of boys living with Duchenne wants to help.  Participating in the races has been such a positive experience for me as I feel like I am truly helping to make a positive impact.

How many races have you participated in?

I have run in the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle the last two years (2018 and 2019) and am running in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon this October with the Race to End Duchenne team.

How do you prepare for races?

I honestly have not prepared much physically for the Shamrock Shuffle races! But the marathon is a different story. 26.2 miles is no joke! I recently started a 26 week running program to get myself in tip top shape for October. I also self-reflect on how lucky I am to have the ability to run in these races.  I am trying to live by the moto “Because I Can” as a way to remind myself that even when things are difficult or I am tired that I can and I will push myself.

Do you have any fundraising and/or training tips or pointers you would share with other runners – either advice someone gave you or you’ve discovered on your own?

Take the training and fundraising a day at a time. With anything, looking too far ahead can be overwhelming.  I also had never asked friends or family to donate to a cause and initially that felt uncomfortable.  But, after seeing how willing people are to help and donate, it has become easier.

What will be the first thing you do when you finish your next race?

I will sign up for another race with the Race to End Duchenne team!

Join Alison in the Race to End Duchenne

Race to End Duchenne is Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy’s signature program that raises funds to support our mission to end Duchenne muscular dystrophy. When you join the Race to End Duchenne you are supporting PPMD’s vital work in advancing research, care, and advocacy to help those with Duchenne live longer, stronger lives. Join the team at one of our upcoming races!

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