💙 CDH Awareness & AJ’s Legacy

April is Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Awareness Month, with April 19 recognized as CDH Awareness Day. Organizations like CDH International work year-round to raise awareness, support families, and fund research to improve outcomes for babies born with CDH.

But for me — this is personal.

My son, AJ, was born on June 14, 2011 with CDH. I had never even heard of it before his birth. For 15 days, he fought with everything he had. His tiny lungs just couldn’t expand enough, and we had to say goodbye. In those 15 days, he showed more strength than most of us show in a lifetime. I will always be proud to call him my son.

Because I can run… I run for him.

Each year, I complete 4–5 races in AJ’s honor to:

💙 Raise awareness about CDH
💙 Support families who are walking this journey
💙 Raise funds for children’s hospitals like Phoenix Children’s Hospital
💙 Contribute toward research and better treatment options

🎯 Our Purpose

To honor AJ’s life by raising awareness, funding research, and supporting families affected by Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia — so that one day, no parent has to say goodbye because of CDH.

🏁 Our Goals

Awareness Goal

Educate new and expecting parents about CDH.
Share AJ’s story so families know they are not alone.
Promote April as CDH Awareness Month and April 19 as CDH Awareness Day.

Fundraising Goal

Raise $____ annually for Phoenix Children’s Hospital or CDH research.
Secure race sponsorships to maximize donation impact.
Encourage donations to local children’s hospitals in honor of AJ.

Participation Goal

Complete 4–5 races (5Ks or more) each year in AJ’s memory.
Invite others to walk or run alongside me — no pressure, just support.
Help first-timers understand that a 5K is 3.1 miles and completely achievable at a walking pace.