If you know me, you know I never considered myself a runner and never thought I could complete one half-marathon (Brooklyn in 2022), let alone two (Vermont Covered Bridges in 2023, an "easy" route). This will be my third half-marathon, the very iconic - and very hard! - NYC half, before I close a 15-year chapter of life in New York before moving with my family to Paris this summer.
This race and why it will be so special
This race is going to be extra special because I will be running in honor of my friends' daughter, Gigi, or Genevieve Favelukes. Gigi passed away at 10 years old in September of 2023, to a rare form of cancer. Gigi was a special child. She was bright and kind, loving and silly. She loved to sing and dance. She loved to rock climb and play Barbies. She is missed every single day by her family and all the members of our Larchmont community who knew and loved, as well as her family and friends at large.
Gigi's Wish through Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley
Gigi's Wish was to attend a Katy Perry concert and to meet the pop star in person. Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley took care of every single detail -flights, hotels, meals - every aspect of the trip was thoughtfully planned and provided. The highlight of the evening came when Gigi finally met Katy, who warmly welcomed her, took photos with her family and the Make-A-Wish coordinator, and signed treasured keepsakes. Katy's kindness towards Gigi and her family was truly extraordinary and heartwarming for all.
The magic of the night culminated during the concert when Katy dedicated her encore performance of "Firework" to Gigi, keeping a promise she had made earlier. As Katy sang, Gigi and her parents beamed with joy, celebrating the incredible moment and forgetting about the illness.
Can you think of a better cause to give to this holiday season than helping children with critical illnesses get their wish come true?
Thank you for your support, from the bottom of my heart.
Daphné Monnoyeur-Moore
