The Gratitude Run

I think we all know someone that we can count on for just about anything. The person you can call when you need a hand with a project, a recommendation, a listening ear, or just a laugh. The one who never seems to say, "no," and who is never, ever too busy for a chat. The friend you can call out of the blue, and it's like no time has passed at all, even if it's been months, or maybe even years since you've spoken. The person who will literally give you the shirt off their back, if you so much as hint that you might need it. And if you personally know Jeff Serena, you probably already know that he is exactly that kind of person. Unfortunately, right now, Jeff and his family desperately need your help.

Recently, after some concerning symptoms prompted Jeff to have medical tests performed, he received some devastating news; he has cancer. Further testing confirmed that Jeff has Stage 4 Cholangiocarcinoma. Doctors have determined that 75% of Jeff's liver has been overtaken by this cancer, and the cancer has metastasized and spread to his lungs.

For as long as anyone can remember, this Navy veteran has had the reputation of rising with the sun and simply not stopping. In addition to being a devoted father and husband, he owns and operates two successful small businesses; Carved Stone by Serena and Protect a Deck. Both businesses have helped to keep him very busy, working with his hands, and interacting with customers day in, and day out.

It was through his work that he met his loving wife, Kristin. Together, Kristin and Jeff enjoy a wonderful, busy life with their 12-year-old son, Casey. Casey is a middle-school student at Peters Township middle school, and he absolutely adores his father. Since the time he could walk, he has been Jeff's little shadow; helping him around the house, assisting with projects, and tagging along on jobs. Casey has enjoyed sports, like baseball, wrestling, basketball, and soccer, but hands down, his favorite way to spend his time is with his father.

Unfortunately, Jeff’s current medical diagnosis and chemotherapy treatments have severely disrupted his ability to work the way that he has for all these years and support the family that he loves so much. As a self-employed veteran business owner who has served his country and community with his time and talents, he now faces a long, exhausting battle that will severely limit his ability work. Even more devastatingly, many of the treatments being pursued for his condition are not covered by insurance. The family is committed to doing whatever they can do to keep Jeff as healthy as possible, but we are pleading for your help to keep this family afloat while they navigate this unimaginable road on which they have found themselves.

If you can find it in your heart to sign up for The Gratitude Run or make a donation to support a family in need this year, they would be forever grateful. If you're not in a position to contribute financially, simply sharing their story and helping us spread the word would mean the world. No one fights alone, and together, we can show how much love and support this family has behind them!

Thank you so much for your time, generosity, and consideration.

We’re offering two sponsorship levels to help uplift a local family.

$500 Sponsorship

• Logo on our website
• Logo on the day-of-race sponsor sign (group)
• Logo on the official race t-shirt

 $1000 Sponsorship

• All of the above, plus:
• Your company sign (individual) displayed along the race route
• A Sponsor-Spotlight thanks from The Gratitude Run on our Facebook page and website
   

Join us in making The Gratitude Run an unforgettable experience for all participants while showcasing your brand in a powerful and positive light.

Ready to explore partnership possibilities? Contact us today at chrisaweiss15@gmail.com and let's create a sponsorship partnership that works for you.

In 2023, the inaugural Gratitude Run benefitted the Smith family. All of our efforts are dedicated to their beloved husband and father, Aaron, who embodied courage, compassion, kindness, laughter and love. Aaron's memory drives us to help those in need because it's exactly what he would do for others. Thank you, Aaron.

The Gratitude Run is dedicated to fostering a spirit of unity and compassion through our unwavering commitment to supporting a family in our community. Our mission is to cultivate a sense of togetherness and gratitude by organizing annual runs that not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also serve as a platform to raise funds and resources for a local family in need. With every stride, we aim to build a stronger, more connected community that embraces the values of empathy, kindness and support. Through the Gratitude Run, we aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of families in our community, creating a legacy of compassion that extends far beyond the finish line.