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Meet Team FPWR: A Dynamic Force Running the NYC Marathon for Research

Meet the inspiring Team FPWR runners dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Prader-Willi Syndrome at the 2024 NYC Marathon.

Meet Team FPWR, a powerhouse group of eleven incredible individuals lacing up their sneakers to conquer the New York City Marathon on November 3, 2024! Each runner brings a unique story and a shared passion for supporting Prader-Willi syndrome research. From all over the country (and world!), this team is united by a desire to raise awareness and critical funds for this rare condition. Let's get to know the faces behind Team FPWR!

Check out the slideshow below to meet each team member and learn about the families they run for!

Julia Rutledge-2

Julia is not just a runner; she's a warrior! This mom of a champion, Maddox, is burning up the pavement with a mission: to find a cure for Prader-Willi Syndrome! She's conquered five half marathons, a triathlon, and even flexed her muscles in a bodybuilding competition. Now, this force of nature is lacing up for the NYC Marathon, her second 26.2-miler. Busy physical therapist by day, running machine by night - Julia, you're an inspiration! Let's cheer her on as she takes on the Big Apple! 

Terrence McAllister-2

Terrence is a dedicated father, deeply inspired by his role as a father to Jaden, who has PWS. His passion for supporting his son has motivated not only himself but also his wife, family, and friends to take action for PWS research! Terrence is excited to contribute to the cause and run the NYC Marathon with Team FPWR. Go #TeamJaden

Daniel McKendrick-2

Inspired by his niece Sophie's diagnosis of Prader-Willi Syndrome, Daniel's lacing up his running shoes to support FPWR. When asked which historical figure he'd run alongside, he said "I’d be curious to see what kind of cardiovascular engine Charles Darwin was rocking with. It’d be great having a naturalist/biologist to point out all the flora and fauna on those mountainous trail runs." Let's go, Daniel! 

Rob Seely-2

We are thrilled to introduce Rob Seely! He's a seasoned runner with multiple half marathons under his belt, two full marathons completed, and he even paced a friend for a grueling 30 miles during a 100-mile ultra! But that's not all. Rob is running for a cause close to his heart – Prader-Willi syndrome research. He and his wife, Diane, have a 20-year-old son with PWS, and this race is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the Foundation for Prader-Willi Research. Thank you, Rob!

Lindsay Thomas-2

Inspired by her friend's incredible daughter, Peyton, who lives with Prader-Willi Syndrome, Lindsay is on a mission to raise awareness and funds for this amazing cause. She's already conquered one marathon, and now she's back for more! Not only is she a running machine, but she's also one of the masterminds behind Pars for Peyton, golf outing and fundraising event for FPWR! Her advocacy never quits, so, get ready, New York City, because Lindsay is coming for you! 

Jay Lehman-2

Meet Jay, a champion for a cause! Six marathons completed, and he's back for more, once again lacing up with Team FPWR! Jay isn't just running for the love of the sport; he's running for his neighbor, Brandon, who lives with PWS. Brandon's infectious spirit is what drives Jay to push those limits, mile after mile. He's not just chasing a medal; he's chasing a breakthrough for this incredible young man and others like him. Welcome back to the team, Jay!

Katherine Garvey-2

From the land down under, we are thrilled to welcome Katherine Garvey to Team FPWR! This super hero is not only a corporate attorney juggling two young boys; she's a bona fide marathon warrior! With almost 30 half marathons and 3 full marathons behind her, she's no stranger to the grind. But this NYC Marathon is extra special as she runs on behalf of her son, Alexander, living with PWS. So, she's flying an epic 50 hours to join Team FPWR and raise awareness and funds for PWS research. She claims she'll be at the back of the pack, but she's a champion in our eyes! 

Ethan Steiner-2

This recent University of San Diego grad, with degrees in real estate and business admin, is no stranger to competition. Ethan Steiner is a former Division 1 cross country and track runner who now splits his time between being a commercial real estate broker and coaching runners in sunny San Diego.

Ethan has a special connection to FPWR – he coached the son of FPWR's executive director, Susan Hedstrom, and was inspired to take action for our mission. With his sister Emma, an avid marathoner living in New York, Ethan's excited to take on his second full marathon. 

Emma Steiner-2

Inspired by her brother Ethan’s dedication to FPWR and his coaching of Susan Hedstrom’s son, Tyler, Emma is fueled with passion and purpose. Hailing from the heart of New York City, Emma isn't just a fundraising dynamo at NYU; she's a seasoned marathoner with four marathons and two ultra-marathons under her belt. Now, she's gearing up for a sensational second run at the iconic NYC Marathon!

This race is special as it marks a long-awaited reunion - her twin brother, Ethan, will be joining her for the big race! Emma is beyond excited to feel the unmatched energy of the NYC Marathon once again. And we love a friendly sibling competition! Let's go, Steiners!

Alyse Zunino-2

Alyse Zunino is excited to join Team FPWR and run the NYC Marathon, fulfilling a 10-year bucket list goal. An avid runner for over 15 years, Alyse is running in honor of her son’s friend and neighbor, Katie, who has PWS. Hailing from Parkland, FL, Alyse has completed one marathon in Miami and participated in 10 half marathons, despite her recurring vow to never race again after each event. Originally from New York, she is thrilled to return for this special race and looks forward to connecting with her teammates and sharing this journey.

Mike Hamilton-2

Mike Hamilton is a dedicated high school math teacher and coach, balancing his roles in Varsity football, wrestling, and track with his family life. As a father of two, he values spending quality time with his loved ones.

An accomplished runner, Mike has completed over 75 races, including 15 marathons, and has twice qualified for the Boston Marathon. He is excited to run in the upcoming NYC Marathon to raise funds for Prader-Willi Syndrome research, a cause close to his heart as his 23-month-old niece, Taylor, was diagnosed with PWS as a newborn.

 

These remarkable runners are not just athletes but champions for a cause that is transforming lives. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to both their personal running goals and the greater cause of PWS research exemplify the spirit of Team FPWR. Each step they take in the NYC Marathon is a stride towards a brighter future for those affected by PWS. We celebrate their efforts, their stories, and their unwavering support for the PWS community. Thank you, Team FPWR! 

Inspired by the incredible stories of our Team FPWR marathoners? You can make a difference too!

Whether you're passionate about running, walking, cycling, or simply raising awareness in your own way, we invite you to join us in our mission to eliminate the challenges of PWS through research. Learn how you can become a champion for PWS research by checking out our Take Action menu. PWS research happens when you take action!

take action for pws research

Topics: Stories of Hope, PWS People

Natalie Brenneman

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Fundraising coach Natalie Brenneman has been fundraising since her son, Evan, was 3 months old. Since then, she has hosted a variety of fundraisers for FPWR, but her favorite is One Small Step. She is a strong believer in the power of collective action and community-driven fundraising, and is dedicated to creating a world where everyone can feel empowered to make a difference. She is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of FPWR's mission and to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by PWS.