Strong. Disciplined. Stubborn. That’s how Kate Laubenstein, Risk Management Analyst at Aurora Health Care, is often described by her father Paul. She’s using that same grit and power to compete in this year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon on behalf of Team Advocate, as she runs to celebrate her father’s perseverance in beating prostate cancer.
After receiving an abnormal blood panel and being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020, Paul began cancer treatments at Aurora Health Care’s medical center in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
“I will never forget the moment he told me,” Kate says. “We were at a family gathering, and he shared he’d received an irregular lab value and would be having further testing.”
Never one to shy away from her curiosity, Kate researched the meaning of her dad’s test results online and was saddened to find out this would not be an easy fix. To deal with the pain of her reality, Kate poured everything she had into running.
“I love running; it’s been a huge outlet for me,” Kate explains. “Having time for myself, in my own world, with my own thoughts. It means so much to release that stress energy and be more in control of my health. During times that are immensely chaotic, running is my calm space, my sense of peace.”
Kate’s stalwart personality, which she credits her father for passing on to her, wouldn’t allow her to feel blue about her father’s diagnosis. In a time when most would find darkness, she looked for light to help her navigate the emotional toll.
“I was very optimistic,” Kate says. “My grandfather had been diagnosed with prostate cancer before and had a successful surgery. Knowing he pulled through gave me hope that my father would have the same outcome. I couldn’t fathom thinking any differently. My mind was set, and my dad was going to be OK.”
Due to COVID visitation restrictions, Kate wasn’t allowed to visit her father on the night of his first cancer surgery. Although she had the utmost confidence in all Aurora staff, not being able to see her father following the procedure was incredibly difficult.
“I’m grateful I was a nurse at the time and was able to catch my dad walking in for surgery,” Kate says. “Not being able to see him directly after was quite painful, but I’m able to show up for him now and honor him and his journey as I race in the Chicago Marathon. I’m racing for my heart in human form. He’s that special to me.”
Paul is now in complete remission and elated to have Kate run on his behalf in this year’s Chicago Marathon.
“My dad was the first person to make a donation toward my cause for the race,” Kate says. “He’s extremely honored I’m dedicating my run to him. He’s a very humble man, and for me to do something so special in honor of him is huge.”
Kate will be running for the Sheboygan County Cancer Fund in support of Aurora cancer programs, research, education, equipment and services in Sheboygan County. With a target of raising $1,750, Kate is well on her way to hitting her goal.
“This is my second-ever marathon,” Kate explains. “During the first, I just wanted to finish it. This time around, I’ll be thinking of everyone supporting me in raising money for Aurora cancer programs. Each mile I complete will be in honor of a donor or their loved one. Many people are counting on me, and I won’t let them down.”
This year’s Chicago Marathon is extra special because it marks Kate’s 10-year anniversary with Aurora Health Care.
“It’s a big deal,” Kate says as she describes the emotions of this milestone. “You don’t too often hear of people staying with the same company for that long. Working at Aurora is special to me because I know with every position I’ve held, my role has mattered and played a huge part in changing someone’s life for the better.”
Interested in running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon with Advocate Health Care’s charity running team, Team Advocate, or supporting Team Advocate runners like Kate? Visit our registration page.