
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about Run4papa. If you need specific help or your question isn’t answered here, send me a message on the Contact Page.
General Questions
How did this whole adventure start?
Moments after completing the NYC Marathon, I was walking with my brother from Central Park back to the apartment to take an ice bath. He said, “I want to tell you something, but I am afraid you will actually do it.” Naturally, my curiosity piqued! He had recently returned from China where a friend of his mentioned running a half marathon on the Great Wall. My brother spoke of a full marathon but didn’t know all the details. As the weeks passed, I diligently read, researched and watched video of the surreal Great Wall of China Marathon and was inspired to run for something far more important than challenging myself. I wanted to do something extraordinary and dementia research was the catalyst.
Does any part of my donation cover your travel expenses or marathon fees?
100% of all contributions go to fund dementia research at the University of Chicago HAARC Center. None of your donation will cover any of my costs to travel or run races around the globe.
What does your “Papa” think of this idea?
While my Papa passed away in September of 2013, he loved the idea of R4P! When I explained the concept and goals behind this initiative, he had a very large smile on his face. He carefully proofread his bio and gave the site his official approval. I know he was happy, proud and honored to have the opportunity to be part of something special that will undoubtedly help other people and families fight this disease by raising awareness and funds for dementia research on a global stage.
Why did I partner with the University of Chicago’s Healthy Aging & Alzheimer’s Research Care (HAARC) Center?
Dr. Emily Rogalski, our long-time research partner at Northwestern Medicine, now serves as Director of the University of Chicago HAARC Center. Backed by a stellar team of experts, she’s carrying forward the mission we’ve always shared: to slow the progression of dementia and never stop searching for a cure. Dr. Rogalski is at the forefront of dementia research, particularly in the area of Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA).
Dr. Rogalski’s deep expertise and commitment to finding effective treatments have led to successful clinical trials in partnership with Run4Papa, which have significantly impacted the lives of PPA patients and their families.
The HAARC team is dedicated to slowing the progression of dementia with the ultimate goal of finding a cure. Dr. Rogalski and her team continue to play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of this vicious disease.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes! ALL donations are fully tax deductible. The University of Chicago HARRC Center is a non-profit organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax exempt charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.
What is our EIN #?
36-2177139
Have you run any marathons before?
Yes, I have run 13 marathons in my life: London Marathon in 2000, New York City Marathon in 2010, Great Wall of China Marathon in 2012, Boston Marathon in 2013 (stopped at Mile 25.8 due to the bombings), Big 5 Marathon in South Africa in 2013 on an open animal reserve, 2014 Boston Marathon, 2014 Rio Marathon, 2015 Outback Marathon, 2015 Chicago Marathon, 2016 Antarctica Marathon, 2016 Athens Marathon, 2017 Berlin Marathon. 2018 Tokyo Berlin Marathon and Mount Everest in 2022.
What races will you be running in 2025
I will be running half marathons in the following states: California, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wyoming.
What is your 2025 fundraising goal?
TBD
Can I send a check instead of an online contribution?
Yes! If you would like to mail a check, please make it payable to “University of Chicago Medicine” and send to the following address:
University of Chicago Gift Administration
Jason Boschan Hope & Healing
5235 S. Harper Court, 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60615
In the Memo, you can write Run4Papa