26.2 Miles for Friendship and a Cause

In a heartfelt gesture of dedication and friendship, devoted runner Andie Truitt is preparing to participate in the New York City Marathon this November, marking the third year she has run in honor of her dear friend, Stephanie Kleine-Ahlbrandt (SKA). This effort is not only a tribute to the bond they’ve shared since high school and college but also a meaningful way to raise awareness and funds for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF), a cause close to her heart.

By running in the marathon, Andie hopes to bring attention to the urgent need for research and care for those affected by cholangiocarcinoma. She has encouraged donations, no matter how small, as they contribute to improving the lives of patients like Stephanie, ensuring that no one faces this disease alone. Stephanie, while managing her health and treatments, is also an advocate for spreading awareness and supporting others. She supports ongoing research by ensuring the patient’s perspective is understood and presented on this at CCF’s Annual Conference in 2023. The presentation can be viewed here.

Andie shares her connection to CCF:

My personal connection to the CCF is through my dear lifelong friend, Stephanie Kleine-Ahlbrandt. Stephanie was diagnosed with stage IV Cholangiocarcinoma in February 2021. When she first called to tell me, I was heartbroken and in disbelief. It felt so helpless knowing someone I love was facing this. As I struggled to process her diagnosis, I watched Stephanie confront it with fierce determination, strength, and grace. Inspired by her, I wanted to support her in a proactive way.

I researched charities and came across CCF. I realized I could combine my passion for running with raising awareness and funds for research and treatment. I called Stephanie to ask if running the NYC Marathon for CCF in her honor would be okay. She was excited and spoke highly of the organization, which had been invaluable in supporting her and helping her navigate her diagnosis. Stephanie has even been a keynote speaker at an Annual Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Conference.

Why Supporting CCF’s Outreach and Research Feels Meaningful:

The information, resources, connections, and research programs that CCF provides have a profound impact on individuals diagnosed with this devastating disease and their loved ones. It’s incredible to know that the funds raised support collaborative research to develop new treatments and, ultimately, find a cure for Cholangiocarcinoma. Most importantly, the sense of community and emotional support I witnessed firsthand at my first Annual Pre-NYC Marathon Luncheon is a testament to the strength and beauty of this community. I now look forward to this event every year!

Why the NYC Marathon?:

I chose the NYC Marathon because it’s my favorite city—a beautiful, vibrant place where people from all over the world come to live. I’ve had a lifelong connection to New York, having spent much of my life there, and now my father, stepmother, sister, and two of my three sons live in the city. It’s also where Stephanie lives and receives her treatments. This is my third year running in her honor for CCF. It’s the perfect way to combine my love for Stephanie with my passion for running, in one of the greatest cities in the world. Most importantly, I’m running for a great cause in honor of one of the most amazing people I know. Stephanie’s strength, resilience, and wisdom inspire me as I train—her friendship is a true gift!

From Stephanie:

Each time Andie runs the NYC Marathon in my honor, it leaves me in awe. Last year, she even managed to run after recovering from surgery—an act of endurance that mirrors the strength I’ve witnessed in her over the years. Recently, some friends I met through CCF, and I reflected on how lucky we are to have found this community, one that many with other cancers feel they lack. Beyond the friendships, the Foundation provides invaluable resources, research updates, emotional support, and guidance to navigate this disease. To share this bond with Andie, a dear friend for well over three decades, fills me with gratitude. Her running represents far more than her love of the sport; it signifies her love for me and our shared hope for new treatments—and, one day, a cure. Each mile she runs embodies not just determination but a deep belief in the power of community and hope, and every step reminds me of the strength, resilience, and unwavering support from my community.

Watch Andie’s progress for CCF grow here.