A family of Heroes
Bob Tate’s family was already behind his efforts to raise funds as a St. Jude Hero. Now they’re running together as one.
In 2013, Bob Tate considered running that year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon as a way to combat an unhealthy lifestyle. Once he discovered he could run the race and also raise funds and awareness for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as a St. Jude Hero, his consideration turned into a commitment.
At that time, his wife, Michelle, and daughter, Emily, were cheering him on. Now, they're joining him as St. Jude Heroes in the 5K at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon on July 17.
"There are a lot of causes out there that you can help support, but for me, there is nothing the children could have possibly done to bring this on themselves."
Bob Tate, St. Jude Hero
The Tate family, who live near Chicago and have long supported St. Jude, was inspired to run together after they volunteered in the hospitality area for St. Jude Heroes at the 2015 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Bob was registered to run the race and raised funds for St. Jude. He felt undertrained, though, and made a last-minute decision to volunteer with his family instead of run.
“There are a lot of causes out there that you can help support, but for me, there is nothing the children could have possibly done to bring this on themselves, and there is nothing they could have possibly done to prevent these illnesses,” Bob, 36, said. “It’s like they never had a chance unless somebody came along to help them, and St. Jude does that.”
Bob, Michelle and Emily want to raise $5,000 for St. Jude.
A family of St. Jude Heroes
Bob Tate, with his daughter, Emily and wife, Michelle.
“My daughter (age 9) is very excited to get out there downtown, running in a St. Jude singlet in public, supporting St. Jude. She’s pumped about it,” said Bob, who is also registered again as a St. Jude Hero for the 2016 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 9.