26.2 Miles for Rowyn

For Simon Wilke, this marathon is about so much more than crossing a finish line.

Simon is preparing to run the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon in honor of his sister, Rowyn, who has been living with ALS since she was just 21 years old.

Today, Rowyn is 28.

Simon knows that the physical and mental challenge of training for and completing 26.2 miles cannot compare to what his sister faces every single day. But he hopes that every mile he runs can help tell her story, raise awareness about ALS, and make a difference for other families walking a similar road.

Throughout his training, Simon plans to share videos and updates that give people a glimpse into Rowyn's life while also documenting his own journey toward race day. His hope is to use the marathon as a way to show the incredible strength, perseverance and endurance Rowyn demonstrates every day.

His Goal: Raise $10,000

Simon has set a goal of raising $10,000 through his marathon journey.

Funds raised will support Rowyn and the other 150 local families affected by ALS through the Susan Mast ALS Foundation.

For families facing ALS, the needs can be overwhelming. The Susan Mast ALS Foundation walks alongside families throughout West Michigan, helping provide practical support, resources and care when they need it most.

This is exactly what Simon wants this marathon to represent: ALS families helping ALS families.

Simon and his family have a saying that has become part of Rowyn's journey:

KeepOnRowyn.

Those words will be with Simon through every early morning run, every difficult training day and ultimately, every one of the 26.2 miles he runs on race day. Simon even hopes to wear a special Susan Mast ALS Foundation and KeepOnRowyn shirt during the marathon.

Simon will be joined by two friends who are also planning to run alongside him, making this effort even more meaningful.

Please consider making a donation in honor of Rowyn and all of the families living with ALS in West Michigan.

Every gift, no matter the size, brings Simon one step closer to his $10,000 goal and helps remind families facing ALS that they are not alone.

26.2 miles. One incredible sister. One community coming together.

KeepOnRowyn. 💙

Keep on Rowyn!