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The Pittsburgh Marathon draws tens of thousands of participants and supporters each year, transforming the city into a vibrant celebration of community, perseverance, and purpose. While the weekend is a showcase of athletic achievement, it also serves as a meaningful platform for charitable organizations working to make a difference.

Since becoming an official charity partner of DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon in 2016, the Emily Whitehead Foundation has proudly participated each year since as part of our mission to create a better world for patients and their caregivers affected by childhood cancer and other diseases treatable with advanced cell and gene therapies.

This year, there was an energetic buzz in the air as Pittsburgh hosted its largest marathon event ever! Despite some drizzle on Saturday and predictions of scattered rain on Sunday, our team stayed dry and spirits remained high throughout the weekend.

We were proud to have 12 runners take part in a variety of events, including the full marathon, half marathon, kids’ run, and the Pet Walk, where “Super Sadie” —the pup of longtime Foundation supporters Dave and Molly Glitsch — joined the walk for the first time and stole the show with her energy and style. The one-mile loop around Point State Park became her personal racecourse, and she enjoyed passing the other dogs. In 10 years of marathon partnerships, Sadie is our first ever four-legged teammate, and we couldn't have asked for a cuter addition to the team. Many of Sadie’s “donors” were other pets showing their support, showing a true team effort! Foundation volunteers also joined us Saturday morning at the finish line, handing out medals to thousands of finishers.

We are thrilled to announce that our 2025 Pittsburgh Marathon team raised over $11,150! Four runners joined the $1,000 club, going above and beyond in their fundraising efforts. Since first joining the Pittsburgh Marathon as a charity partner, the Foundation has raised over $123,000 to help Activate the Cure.

New this year for the Foundation marathon team was participating in creating and delivering Believe Bundles, a new Foundation program created to bring hope and comfort to patients undergoing treatment. One runner helped write encouraging notes to children receiving treatment, another helped decorate the bundles, and together we delivered them to UPMC Children’s Hospital following the race weekend.

Another highlight included Molly Glitsch, dedicated runner and faithful Embassador, being interviewed by KeyBank, the sponsor of the “Run For a Reason” charity program. We’re so proud of her for representing the Foundation with passion and heart!

Fundraising for the Pittsburgh Marathon remains open through the end of May, and there’s still time to support our team and help make an impact! Donate today.

If you'd like to be a part of our marathon magic, consider joining us in the Philadelphia Marathon this fall!

To join our 2026 team, contact Jodie Potter at jodiepotter@emilywhiteheadfoundation.org.