こんにちは。

北海道で難病の子どものための、医療ケア付キャンプ場を運営している、そらぷちキッズキャンプです。

今回は、東京マラソン2026のチャリティランナーとして走ってくださる、アメリカ在住のランナーの方の想いをご紹介します。
このチャリティランナーの方は、今回で2回目のチャレンジとなり、前回は途中リタイアという残念な結果となってしまったのですが、今回はそのリベンジのため、息子と二人でトレーニングに励んでいるそうです。フィニッシュ後のチャリティラウンジで、彼をはじめとするすべてのチャリティランナーのみなさまとお会いできることを心から願っています！

This time, we would like to share with you the story of a runner from the U.S. who will be participating as a Tokyo Marathon 2026 charity runner.
It will be his second time running the Tokyo Marathon, and this year he is training hard with his son to make up for the disappointment of having to withdraw from the race last time.
We sincerely look forward to welcoming him, and all our charity runners, at the Charity Lounge after the finish line.

『The mission of Solaputi Kids Camp is very special to me as I had a younger sister with severe disabilities. Her life was short, and I saw how difficult her condition was for my parents and family. I can only imagine how much relief and joy Solaputi brings to children and families with sever challenges; it's a privilege to support this cause. The amazing work this organization does speaks to me personally and inspires me to stay involved and contribute. As my third time, I've also come to know some of the staff and am always moved by their kindness and care. Again, it's an honor to support them and the positivity and optimism they put in the world. I'm sure their effort deeply impacts the children and families in their care.

Tokyo 2026 would also have special significance for me personally as my third time participating in the marathon with Solaputi -- and my second attempt to run with my son, My son. Our first attempt together in 2023 was not successful, as we didn't make the first cutoff time. I take responsibility for this, as the race was two weeks after my father passed away suddenly and I was still so shaken by the loss. I struggled with my focus, and was not a strong partner for My son. I would love another chance to complete the race with my son and see the joy when he receives his medal.

Finally, because our family has Japanese heritage, it is always special to visit Japan together. My son and I both have strong passion for our Japanese heritage - we both have studied language and culture at university. I was a member of the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program in 1994-1996; My son is applying for 2026!

My son and I would be deeply honored to represent and support the wonderful work of Solaputi Kids Camp once again. We've even begun our training together with optimism that we'll be selected and have an opportunity to return and finish. We're excited about the possibility and extremely grateful for your consideration.』