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 Joey Cheung. Joey told us about running to support opportunities for inclusion.
“Running a marathon has always been a personal challenge, but this year it means more.
I’m proud to run with Team Special Children’s Charities, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their mission of inclusion and opportunity for people of all abilities truly resonates with me.
As a parent of two boys, this cause hits close to home. Every person deserves to be supported, included, and valued. That’s what keeps me going through the early mornings and long training days.
This journey isn’t just about finishing a race — it’s about making a difference. Every mile I run is for something bigger than myself.
Thank you for helping me turn miles into meaningful impact.”
Thank you so much to Joey 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: Tom Loranger
My marathon journey is important to me because I am trying to push myself and do hard things.

Marathon Monday: Sarah Hruska
I’m running so more kids like Sam get the chance to feel accepted—to be seen for who they are, not pushed aside for what they struggle with. I’m running so families don’t have to fight so hard just to find a place where their child belongs.

Marathon Monday: Talia Skollar
That’s why being part of Team Special Children’s Charities means so much to me—it’s a way to pair something I enjoy with a cause that’s personal, and to be part of something that truly makes an impact.

Marathon Monday: Maria Mergal
Having people in my life with different abilities, I’ve seen firsthand how much it matters for everyone to have the resources and space to thrive. That’s exactly what this organization provides and it’s why this one feels personal.

Marathon Monday: Joey Cheung
This journey isn’t just about finishing a race — it’s about making a difference. Every mile I run is for something bigger than myself.
Thank you for helping me turn miles into meaningful impact.

Marathon Monday: Joseph Traskaski
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do.

