Tzipora Grodko is a psychotherapist and the host of the Stories of Hope podcast. She recently participated in the Miami Marathon to benefit Chai Lifeline and shares her experience to inspire others.
Last week, I had the privilege of being part of something extraordinary. As a storyteller and host of the “Stories of Hope” podcast, I spend my days listening to and sharing stories of resilience, but nothing could have prepared me for the depth of connection, inspiration, and sheer energy I felt at the Team Lifeline weekend in Miami.
From the moment I arrived, I knew this was more than just a marathon. It was a gathering of people from all walks of life—children, parents, counselors, volunteers, supporters—each carrying their own story of struggle, perseverance and triumph. Whether running in memory of a loved one, pushing through physical limitations or showing up for the families, every participant had a why, and that why was powerful.
One of the most meaningful moments for me was moderating a panel over the weekend featuring four individuals who have been impacted by Chai Lifeline. Some were parents navigating their child’s illness, others were dealing with their own diagnosis, and one was grieving the loss of her beautiful son. What they all shared was an overwhelming sense of gratitude—for the support, the love and the unwavering presence of a community that refused to let them feel alone.
Standing at that podium, I wasn’t just moderating. I witnessed raw emotion, vulnerability and the transformative power of storytelling in real time. These weren’t just stories—they were lifelines, threads that wove together a larger narrative of strength and hope. As I listened, I realized that this is why Chai Lifeline exists: To remind people that even in the darkest times, there are hands reaching out to hold them up.
The weekend was filled with moments like that—ones that made me stop and truly feel the impact of what we were all there to do. Every conversation, every shared hug, every laugh over a pre-race meal reinforced the idea that this wasn’t just about running a marathon. It was about showing up for each other in the most meaningful way. The pasta party celebrated each individual present the night before the big day; I had the honor of cheering them on and reminding them that “they could do it!”
Then came race day.
I stood at the starting line, surrounded by more than 200 runners, all wearing Team Lifeline jerseys proudly displaying the names of those they were running for. Some were pushing wheelchairs, making sure that every child—no matter their physical limitations—got to experience the thrill of crossing the finish line. Camp Simcha counselors ran with the same boundless energy they bring to camp, spreading joy with every step. Older participants proved that age is no barrier when you’re fueled by purpose.
As we ran through the streets of Miami, the energy was electric. People cheered from the sidelines, calling out names and offering high-fives. This wasn’t about speed or personal records—it was about the collective effort, the reminder that no one should have to navigate life’s hardest challenges alone.
And at the finish line, as exhausted runners embraced and tears were mixed with sweat, and as medals were placed around necks, I saw it so clearly, this is what hope looks like. It looks like showing up. It looks like pushing past limits. It looks like an entire community running for those who need them most.
As I reflect on this experience, I’m left with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of Chai Lifeline, for the stories I had the privilege of helping share and for the reminder that hope is something we create together.
This weekend wasn’t just about a race. It was about resilience, community and the power of lifting each other up. And I, for one, am honored to have been a part of it.
