2024 United Airlines NYC Half

Jack DiRaimo was a son, husband, father, brother, nephew, cousin, stepson, a friend but most importantly he was a FIGHTER. Four years ago Jack was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Synovial Sarcoma Cancer. So rare that for every one million people, one to two are diagnosed with synovial sarcoma per year in the US. 

Although we can't know why things happen the way they happen, knowing why isn't necessary to move forward. We may never find out why but that didn't keep Jack from fighting the ultimate battle, while continuing on with his life.  

I did not know what sarcoma cancer was when I first heard the news from Jack's dad Russell. 

I didn't know that Sarcoma:

• is an uncommon group of cancers which arise in the bones, and connective tissue such as fat and muscle. 

• accounts for 1% of adult cancers in the US.

• is extremely difficult to detect and diagnose because it rarely display any symptoms other than a painless lump.

What I did know is that Jack would be embarking on a journey that ultimately meant he would be fighting for his life at the young age of 32 years old and that has to be the most difficult and painful news that any person and family has to hear.  

Throughout Jack's Journey, Russell would keep everyone updated after every Doctor Apt, Chemo Treatment, Hospital Visit, CT Scan, Lab Results, Medical Tests and more. Although Houston is about 2,000 miles apart from Rhode Island, Russell would ensure that every single family member was a part of Jack's Journey. 

I encourage you to read the story of "JACK'S JOURNEY" located in the photos below.  

1/10/2024- Message from Jack's Dad Russell DiRaimo 

"Today at approximately 5:30 my beautiful boy Jack passed away at his home with his wonderful wife Sandra, daughter Dasja and myself present. His passing comes with tremendous grief but also very real relief as the cancer that has tormented his body after almost 4 years is now gone. So my tears shed are a combination of emotions. He for sure is joining his blue bird angels, his Mom and other family members. They say time heals all wounds but to be honest no amount of time will ever completely heal this wound nor do I want it to. But I will cherish my time I was lucky enough to share with him. I thank all of you for letting me share his journey and for all your kind words, sharing this has been my therapy. And when we see each other, do not be afraid to bring up Jack, I cannot promise I will not cry, but I can promise I will cherish the memory we will share."- Russell DiRaimo

MY PART

I began looking for opportunities to help raise awareness for this cause and found there was a Race To Cure Sarcoma Race Team running the 2024 New York City Half Marathon. The only problem was that the deadline to apply was over 3 weeks prior and they only had 5 spots. I decided to email the RTCS contact person curious if there was a potential waiting list. To my surprise, her response was that only 4/5 spots were filled and they would love to offer me the last spot to run in Jack's memory and honor. I call that Divine Intervention. 

Unlike the other 15 or so half marathons I have ran, this one is different. I am running for everyone who has had to experience a fight with Sarcoma Cancer, most importantly Jack's Family, Jack's Friends and Jack. 

As my sneakers hit the pavement of the concrete jungle, every step I take forward will be for those we have lost to Sarcoma Cancer, especially Jack DiRaimo. 

I hope you consider supporting me by making a donation to my page to raise much needed funding for research, education and advocacy or sharing this page to create awareness.