2026 TCS New York City Marathon
26.2 miles across all five boroughs of New York City. Beginning in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park, the course spans Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—bringing together communities from across the city in one of the world’s most recognized endurance events.
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When you run on behalf of RARE Foundation, you’ll:
Raise funds that directly support the RARE Foundation's policy, advocacy, and patient engagement programs.
Receive guaranteed race entry through the RARE Foundation's official charity partnership.
Get a personalized fundraising page powered by Haku.
Access one-on-one fundraising support and ongoing team communication.
Receive official race gear.
Be featured on the RARE Foundation’s website and social media channels.
The RARE Foundation run team is community of advocates, families, and supporters who challenge themselves to make an impact in the rare disease community.
This marks the inaugural year of the program, expanding how supporters can participate beyond traditional giving.
Why We Run
The RARE Foundation’s mission is to advance science-driven policy and ensure equitable access to diagnosis, research, and treatment for the 30 million Americans living with rare diseases.
By joining our marathon team, you will:
- Be part of a national community advocating for 30 million Americans living with rare diseases.
- Receive personalized fundraising support, training resources, and branded gear (such as custom shoes or shirts).
- Make an impact — every dollar raised supports programs that advance diagnosis, access, and research for rare diseases.
Meet the 2026 Team
Cullen Roper
Why I Run: I’m running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in memory of my father, who I lost to sickle cell disease. I run so that families affected by rare diseases have greater access, stronger advocacy, and a future filled with more answers and fewer losses.
Fun Fact: I was home schooled until I was 10
Favorite Quote: “Humble yourself before the lord and he’ll lift you up”- James 4:10
Missy Plis
Why I Run: I run as a nurse, a mother, and a rare disease patient. I run to honor those I’ve lost, uplift families still navigating uncertainty, and turn lived experience into advocacy and hope.
Fun Fact: I hate seafood!
Favorite Quote: “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it” – A League of Their Own
Gaurav Shah
Why I Run: I run because every rare disease family deserves more time, more answers, and more hope. Each mile is a commitment to keep pushing what is possible for those waiting on breakthroughs.
Fun Fact: Gaurav approaches endurance running the same way he approaches building a gene therapy company: long-term, disciplined, and grounded in the belief that meaningful breakthroughs require persistence over time.
Favorite Quote: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Kerri Gallagher
Why I Run: I’m running because I see firsthand the extraordinary burden rare disease patients and families carry while searching for treatments and answers. If 26.2 miles can help advance awareness, advocacy, and access for even one patient, then every step is worth it.
Fun Fact: I was born with Streeter Syndrome — a rare congenital condition affecting roughly 1 in 10,000 births, which means I came into this world with just 1 of the 10 toes most people take for granted. I’ve been defying the odds one step at a time ever since, and this marathon is no different.
Favorite Quote: “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” – Walt Disney
Support the Team
Can’t run but still want to make an impact? Support the RARE Foundation by donating to an individual runner or to the team campaign. Your generosity drives research, advocacy, and access to care for those living with rare diseases.
For questions or more information, please contact: philanthropy@rareadvocates.org
