Claire Schulz Bergman was diagnosed with ALS in November 2022. Just two years later, she accomplished an incredible feat—running the 2024 NYC Marathon as one of two people with ALS on Team ALS TDI. Below, you can read Claire’s inspiring letter reflecting on her journey and this remarkable achievement.
Two years ago, in November 2022, my world shifted: I was diagnosed with ALS. This life-altering diagnosis came just a year after I completed Ironman Wisconsin in September 2021. For over three decades, endurance running and biking had been a cornerstone of my life. The rhythm of movement, the camaraderie of the racing community, and the challenge of pushing limits uplifted me. So when I faced this new challenge of ALS, I resolved not to stop moving. On November 3, 2024, I laced up my running shoes, joined the New York City Marathon as an athlete with disabilities, and ran to raise funds for the ALS Therapy Development Institute and find better treatments and a cure for this awful disease.
With the support of friends, family, and strangers, I raised $10,500 to fight ALS. Together, we brought attention to a disease that touches so many lives yet remains desperately in need of breakthroughs.
The Gift of Team Gleason
This monumental experience was made even more special by the incredible support I received from Team Gleason Adventure Grants Adventure Grants. Their generosity lifted the financial burden of the trip, allowing my family to travel with me to New York City. It wasn’t just my marathon—it became our adventure. My family cheered me on, and some even ran with me on the course, giving me strength when I needed it most. Team Gleason also made sure we had the accommodations we needed to make this trip seamless.
On the eve of race day, I gathered with other ALS TDI Marathon team members and had the chance to meet Blair from the Team Gleason Foundation. It was an unforgettable moment—a chance to say “thank you” in person for the gift they had given me: the ability to take this trip, surrounded by loved ones, and create lasting memories.
Running for a Cause, Running for Others
Running 26.2 miles is no small feat. Doing it with ALS, while pushing a walker, made it even harder. But every mile carried its own reward. Along the route, strangers shared stories of loved ones affected by ALS. Their words gave me strength. I wore the names of individuals I’ve learned about since my diagnosis on my jersey, carrying their fight with me step by step. I ran for those who could no longer run, for the love of movement and freedom, and for the sheer joy of overcoming something that seemed insurmountable.
Crossing the finish line was an emotional triumph—a blend of exhaustion, gratitude, and pride.
The Trip of a Lifetime
After the marathon, my family and I explored New York City, a place we’d never been before. We visited the 9/11 Memorial, marvelled at the Statue of Liberty, and walked the storied streets of this iconic city. It wasn’t just sightseeing; it was a celebration of life, of resilience, and of family. This trip wasn’t just about the race. It was about creating memories that I will carry with me always—joyful moments amidst life’s challenges.
A Heart Full of Gratitude
I will forever be grateful to Team Gleason for making this experience possible, and to every person who supported my journey—those who donated, cheered, and encouraged me along the way. This race, this trip, this moment will forever be seared into my memory as a testament to strength, love, and community.
ALS will take a lot from me, but it won’t take my spirit. The NYC Marathon was more than a race. It was a declaration: I am still here, still moving, still fighting.
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