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 Ethan Schwartz. Ethan joined Team Special Children’s Charities to run this year’s Chicago Marathon in honor of his niece Emma. We can tell that Emma means the world to Ethan because when we asked him to tell us his marathon story, he made it clear that he was telling Emma’s story, and every one of his pictures featured Emma. Emma is lucky to have Ethan as an uncle, and we are lucky to have him on our team.
“Hi, my name is Ethan, and I’m running the 2025 Chicago Marathon with Team Special Children’s Charities to raise funds for a charity that supports kids with special needs—something very close to my heart.
Last June, my niece Emma was born with brain damage on both sides of her brain. At just under a year old, she’s already facing serious developmental challenges. Emma can’t yet sit up unassisted, form words, or use her hands intentionally yet. Although, she is one of the happiest babies you’ll ever meet. She’s always smiling, laughing, and bringing positive vibes.
Her parents, Annie and Jose, are incredibly loving and committed. With the help of specialists, they’re giving Emma the best care possible—occupational, developmental, and physical therapy through Illinois’ Early Intervention programs.
Emma’s journey is just beginning, and so is mine. I’m running not just for fitness, but for a purpose: to help children like Emma get the care and support they need.
Please consider donating. Every mile I run is for Emma—and for families like hers who face these challenges with love, hope, and strength.”
Thank you so much to Ethan for being a part of our team! Support his effort by making a donation to his campaign today!
Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!
Marathon Monday: Katie Poole
Running has given me more than just miles – it’s given me a powerful community, a way to process grief, and the power of showing up for something bigger than myself.
Marathon Monday: Laila Robateau
When children and adults with disabilities are given the chance to learn, play, and connect, it transforms not only their lives but also the lives of their families and communities.
Marathon Monday: Antonio Hernandez
Running has given me so much, and joining Team SCC felt like the perfect way to give back.
Marathon Monday: Luis Ortiz
Knowing first hand what having a special need child is, he knew he wanted to run for kids and when he saw everything SCC does he knew it was the perfect charity to run with and has been so inspired and moved by everything SCC does for the community.
Marathon Monday: Carson Haslinger
Every donation means the world to me because I know it’s going to help people like Cole stay active, connected, and part of something bigger.
Marathon Monday: Jayme Norris
It is my hope that my journey with running can help others (especially my 3 daughters) see they are able to do anything they put their minds to!
