Napa Valley Marathon Welcomes Brave Like Gabe as Official Charity Partner

January 7, 2020

Runners in the 2020 Event to Raise Money for Rare Cancer Research

Professional runner Gabriele “Gabe” Grunewald was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare salivary gland cancer, in 2009. From day one of her diagnosis, she knew running would be an integral part in her journey towards improving her health.

“Brave Like Gabe” started as a hashtag to support Gabe as she battled the incurable disease. However, she experienced firsthand the many challenges faced by rare cancer patients and the need for dedicated research funding. As a result, the Brave Like Gabe Foundation was formed in 2018 as a way for Gabe to continue to share her story, spread hope and make a difference in the cancer community.  Gabe passed away on June 11, 2019, after a 10-year battle with adenoid cystic carcinoma–but the Brave Like Gabe mission lives on and will continue to support research while empowering those afflicted with rare cancers.

“The Brave Like Gabe Foundation is honored to be the official charity partner of the 2020 Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon. We are grateful for all those showing up and sharing hope by raising funds for rare cancer research that supports better, more effective treatments. This growing community inspires us daily and we’re excited to be running on Hope with all of you on the west coast,” said Justin Grunewald, President of Brave Like Gabe.  Runners can register for the race and join the charity team, pledging to raise $500 for the cause.  Participants can also make donations to the cause through the registration process. All donations will be presented to the Brave Like Gabe Foundation on race weekend.

“We are delighted to partner with the Brave Like Gabe Foundation and support the important work of their mission,” remarked Michelle La Sala of Blistering Pace Race Management, producer of the event.  “Gabe Grunewald was a force in our sport, a bright light of hope, and an inspiration to people everywhere.  The Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon is committed to helping raise funds and awareness for rare cancer patients and research as well as celebrating Gabe’s legacy.”

Gabe passed away on June 11, 2019, after a 10-year battle with adenoid cystic carcinoma. But the Brave Like Gabe mission lives on and will continue to support rare cancer research and empower anyone who is struggling through physical activity. With every mile, Brave Like Gabe inspires.  The Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon & Half Marathon is grateful to contribute to this deserving foundation and play a small part in continuing to build awareness one runner at a time.

For more information and charity registration details, please visit napavalleymarathon.org.

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About Blistering Pace Race Management: Founded in 2016, BPRM works in a variety of race management capacities, ranging from staffing to full operational oversight. Clients include the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon (10K & 5K), the Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon, the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the TCS New York City Marathon. For more information, visit blisteringpace.com.