I am so excited to announce that I will be running the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon for The Penny Doerge Adaptive Academy (PDAA) at Hospital for Special Surgeries (HSS) and in partnership with Penny’s Flight Foundation. 

I was fortunate to know Penny, who lived 16 incredible years with Neurofibromatosis (NF), a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerve pathways in the body. Shortly after Penny’s passing in November, the Doerge family launched Penny’s Flight Foundation in celebration of her extraordinary life. The foundation aims to raise awareness of NF, fund medical research, and inspire others to live with positivity and expression, just like Penny did. 

Almost 10 years ago, HSS launched their Adaptive Academy, a program that organizes local and regional adaptive programs — surfing, horseback riding, water skiing, and more — to offer pediatric patients with challenging musculoskeletal conditions the opportunity to participate in active adventures. 

The program will officially be renamed The Penny Doerge Adaptive Academy. Penny’s resilient and courageous spirit are all qualities that the PDAA works to promote in its young athletes. 

Please consider donating to this page to spread Penny's wings, fund NF research, and support Penny’s Flight and HSS. Thank you!