Emily Wagner’s most effective way to cope with stress is going for a run. But several years ago, a doctor told her she had to quit because of nagging pain in her left knee and hamstring.
“It was so hard to give it up, I actually mourned it,” Emily explained. But then she went to see Dr. Steven Potts, an Internal Medicine physician at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, who encouraged her to try physical therapy.
Emily soon started working with one of the hospital’s physical therapists, Jessica Stroup. Now, not only is Emily running again, but she’s about to do a 26.2-mile marathon.
“I want to express my gratitude as a grateful patient, but I also want to pay it forward for other patients who will benefit from these services,” Emily shared. That’s why Emily joined Team Advocate to participate in the Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience this October. She’s raising support for Advocate Illinois Masonic’s Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine programs and to enhance care for Internal Medicine patients just like her.
Emily is a team member who raises funds for the incredible programs at Advocate Illinois Masonic. But she says this is different. This run is personal. “I’m doing this as a way to say thank you for the amazing care I received,” Emily said.
There’s still time to join Team Advocate The free 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience will start on Monday, October 5 and end on Sunday, October 11. The 2020 Virtual Experience invites everyone, from novice runners to veteran marathoners, to take part in a new kind of running experience. Participants currently registered for the 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will have the exclusive opportunity to run 26.2-miles virtually, while shorter distance races (the 1 mile, 5k, 8k, and half marathon) are also available to anyone interested in participating.
Since 2011, Advocate’s charity running team has raised more than $1 million for programs and services across Illinois. When you become part of Team Advocate, you’re running for more than yourself. You’re supporting cancer research. You’re helping children and adults with Down syndrome. You’re giving back to the nurses and doctors who save lives every day. Join Emily and choose a fund that matters to you.