Each October, the streets of Chicago come alive with tens of thousands of runners, supporters, and stories of perseverance. Among them, Team Gilda once again stood out – running not just for personal goals, but for a cause that touches countless lives across Chicagoland.

This year, Team Gilda raised over $225,000 (and counting) to ensure that anyone impacted by cancer can access Gilda’s Club Chicago’s free programs and services. From first-time marathoners to seasoned runners, every mile was powered by community, courage, and compassion.

A Team United by Purpose

For more than a decade, Gilda’s Club Chicago has proudly served as an official charity partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Each year, Team Gilda runners lace up their shoes with one mission in mind: to make sure no one faces cancer alone.

That shared purpose connects runners from all walks of life, survivors, caregivers, family members, and friends, each carrying their own story of strength and remembrance. The training months leading up to race day are filled with early morning runs, encouragement, and an unshakable sense of community.

“Team Gilda connects so many parts of my life: my love for comedy, my health journey, and the people who inspire me. As a comedian, Gilda Radner has always been a role model, so joining Team Gilda felt natural. After my mom’s cancer diagnosis, I returned to running, lost over 100 pounds, and found new purpose. I run to honor my mom’s remission, celebrate Molly LeCaptain’s legacy, and support Gilda’s Club’s incredible community.”
— Betsy K.

For many runners, the marathon is deeply personal. It is an opportunity to honor loved ones who have been impacted by cancer or to celebrate their own survivorship.

“When I was 13, my mom, Madelyn, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. During her battle, she longed for a community—someone who truly understood what she was going through. We visited Gilda’s Club once, but as a teen, I didn’t realize how meaningful it was. After she passed away, I took on one last marathon to honor her and prove to myself I could do it. When a last-minute bib opened up for Team Gilda, it felt like divine intervention. Running for Gilda’s Club lets me reconnect in a way I couldn’t as a teen and support families facing the same battle.”
— Leon F.

Each story fuels Team Gilda’s purpose. Every mile run, every dollar raised, and every cheer shared along the route helps ensure that anyone affected by cancer can find community, hope, and healing through Gilda’s Club Chicago.

Creative Fundraising that Made a Difference

Beyond the miles run, Team Gilda’s fundraising efforts were filled with heart, creativity, and humor. From bake sales to corporate giving matches, every idea reflected the passion behind the cause and the community it supports.

One touching story came from a Team Gilda runner, Nivine P., whose 4th grade son, along with his teacher, launched a campaign called “Coins for a Cause.” Inspired by his mom’s breast cancer diagnosis and marathon journey, the student created a donation box, made a classroom presentation, and encouraged his classmates to join in. Within a week, they raised over $100, with one student donating $40 of their own money.

“My son’s teacher took it upon herself to encourage the class to fundraise for my cause. It’s been incredibly touching to see how much the kids care. Watching my son carry that donation box to school and explain why Gilda’s Club matters to our family has been one of the most meaningful parts of this journey.”
— Nivine P.

Another runner, Sayard B., used creativity and humor to rally her supporters. Her campaign offered fun incentives:

“Donate $25 and you can add a song to my running playlist — your choice! For $50, I’ll bake you my Grandma’s Pumpkin or Banana Bread (local only!). And for $250, you can put a patch on my race day shirt — or, if you’re feeling really generous, we can negotiate a decal on my butt. Anything to make this worth it!”
– Sayard B.

These creative and heartfelt efforts show how Team Gilda runners go beyond fundraising. They inspire laughter, connection, and compassion — all while ensuring that anyone impacted by cancer can find strength and community at Gilda’s Club Chicago.

The Cheer Team that Couldn’t Be Missed

On race day, Team Gilda runners weren’t alone. Volunteers, members, and staff filled the course with red shirts, cowbells, drums, and endless enthusiasm. Our Cheer Team, stationed along the route, was impossible to miss their dancing, shouting encouragement, and lifting spirits mile after mile.

For many runners, spotting the Gilda’s Club cheer station along the course was a moment of relief and renewed strength.

Every Mile Matters. Join the 2026 Team!

Each member of Team Gilda is more than a runner – they are an ambassador of community. Together, they’ve turned every mile into meaningful action for the thousands of individuals and families who walk through our red doors each year.

Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just looking for a new challenge, Team Gilda welcomes you to join the 2026 team. You’ll receive fundraising support, free race entry, exclusive training perks, and the unbeatable camaraderie of a team united by purpose.

Together, we run for strength. We run for community. We run for everyone impacted by cancer.