NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon 2026

  Dear Friends and Family,

I’m writing to share something deeply personal and incredibly important to me.

In 2026, I will be participating in the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon to raise funds for research and support for Neutral Lipid Storage Disease with Myopathy (NLSD-M)—an ultra-rare, progressive genetic disease. I am running for my very special friend, Gabby Zeppieri, and for every individual and family whose lives have been affected by this condition.

Gabby is the president of Gabby’s Wonderful World, a nonprofit foundation dedicated to championing those living with NLSD-M. This disease causes harmful lipid buildup in the skeletal muscles, leading to increasing physical challenges over time. While the diagnosis has changed Gabby’s life, it has not defined her—and her strength continues to inspire everyone around her.

Gabby has decided to take on this race not just as a fundraiser, but as a declaration of hope, resilience, and purpose. While she is unable to physically walk or run the race herself, she will be crossing the finish line together—her very good friend will be pushing her every mile of the way. Each step represents courage, friendship, and the belief that limits do not define possibility.

This race is more than 13.1 miles.
It’s a statement that:

A diagnosis is part of the story, not the ending

Strength shows up even on the hardest days

No one should face rare diseases alone

I am asking for your support—whether through a donation, sharing this message, or simply cheering us on. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps fund research, raise awareness, and bring hope to families living with NLSD-M.

Together, we can help ensure that Gabby’s message rings loud and clear:

“I am still here. I am still strong. And I am not finished.”

Thank you for believing in this cause, for supporting this run, and for standing with us.

With gratitude,
Liz