My name is Dennis Beggs, and I’m preparing to run 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days as part of the World Marathon Challenge.

I’m taking on this extraordinary challenge at 63-years old to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), supporting programs and services for families impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia-related illnesses, and research for a cure.

I’m dedicating this effort to my mother, Eileen, who passed away on Christmas Day in 2021 after her battle with Alzheimer’s.

I never started with a goal, but within a few years completed all six major marathons within 10 months. I earned my Six Star--every runner's goal--by running marathons in Boston, Chicago, London, Berlin, Tokyo, and New York. Less than 100 American runners complete the six in a year.

Now, I’m taking on this new challenge to honor my mom’s memory, raise awareness, and support families facing this awful disease.

The World Marathon Challenge begins on January 31, 2025. Over the course of seven days, I’ll run 183 miles and spend approximately 68 hours in the air traveling from one continent to the next. The journey starts in Novo, Antarctica, and continues through Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Fortaleza, and finally Miami. Temperatures will range from 14°F to 86°F, making it a true test of endurance.

Thank you so much for your donations. Your support is making a real difference for families dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

--Dennis

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a national non-profit organization serving individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses. Our services include:

The AFA Helpline, which is available 7 days a week by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), and web chat (www.alzfdn.org) and staffed entirely by licensed social workers who are specifically trained in dementia care
Caregiver support groups
Educational programs and publications for caregivers, including Care Connection webinars, the Educating America Tour, and Alzheimer’s TODAY magazine
The National Memory Screening Program, which provides free, confidential memory screenings to people nationwide, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites
Dementia-care training for healthcare professionals
And more.

Additional information about AFA’s programs and services is available at www.alzfdn.org. AFA holds Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating.

World Marathon Challenge - Dennis Beggs

By Alzheimer's Foundation of America

World Marathon Challenge - Dennis Beggs

7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 Days