Every Monday we celebrate the runners who have joined Team Special Children’s Charities for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
This incredible team is using their miles to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago. We are so grateful for their dedication and generosity!
This week’s featured runner is Antonio Hernandez. Antonio told us that the marathon is a key part of a longer journey for him, and why he decided to join Team Special Children’s Charities:
“I wanted to share a bit of my running journey and why I chose to join Team SCC.
Running has completely changed my life. When I made the decision to get sober, running became the anchor that helped me through that journey. Every mile reminded me that I was moving forward, building strength and clarity I never thought I’d find.
I officially started my running journey this past January, and just a month later in February, I ran my very first 5K. From that moment on, I fell in love with the sport, the challenge, the discipline, and the sense of accomplishment. That spark grew into something bigger, and I decided to set my sights on a marathon. Since then, I’ve been locked in, dedicating myself to training and pushing my limits.
When I began looking into running for a cause, I knew I wanted to be part of something that made a real difference. I did my research on charities and was drawn to the impact of those that support children. That’s when I found Team SCC, and it couldn’t have been a better fit. Supporting children with special needs deeply resonates with me, their resilience inspires me to keep going, both in running and in life.
Running has given me so much, and joining Team SCC felt like the perfect way to give back. It connects my passion for running with a cause that truly changes lives, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
Thank you to Antonio for sharing your story and for making our cause a part of your journey! Support him by making a donation to his campaign today.
Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!

Marathon Monday: Joe and McKinley
“I think yesterday taught me a life lesson about what really matters: coming together to reach a common goal.”

Marathon Monday: Marian Boyd
“His optimism and general zest for life inspires me every day to wake up be grateful for the life I lead and the abilities I have.”

Marathon Monday: Andrew Lewinski
“Thank you to Special Children’s Charities for all that you do for the community, and thank you again for giving me this amazing opportunity to be part of the Chicago Marathon.”

Marathon Monday: Nathan McDonald
“I look to continue my journey of the world major marathons abroad in years to come while fundraising for charities that I’m passionate about.”

Marathon Monday: Hilari Williams
“I’m often in awe of what my body has accomplished so far, and I hope along the way, my son is learning that we can do hard things, we can overcome obstacles, and we can do it with love and a smile.”

Marathon Monday: Amanda Younggreen
“26.2 miles in memory of Clayton—bringing joy and confidence to anyone at any ability level.”



