Michael Phelps, Make Room for Jenny McDevitt!

August 29, 2008 - An unexpected 550 runners and walkers, including Runner’s World columnist, John “the Penguin” Bingham and his wife, Health magazine columnist, Jenny Hadifield, came out to support brain tumor hero and survivor, Jenny McDevitt for her inaugural Joggin for the Noggin 5K Run and Walk in her hometown of Palatine, Illinois. 

“For our first year, the turnout was overwhelming and we were truly touched by the generosity of people and the community of Palatine,” said Jenny, the force and creator behind Joggin for the Noggin. 

In September 2003, eight weeks after the birth of her son Jack, Jenny was diagnosed with the worst possible brain tumor, a malignant Glioblastoma.  Determined to beat the disease, she knew she wasn't going to do it sitting down so she took up a new hobby–marathon running.  “I may have had a brain tumor, but I still have a strong mind, and with a strong mind I can do anything,” said Jenny.

Ya Gotta Believe!  Since her diagnosis, Jenny has completed five marathons, ten half marathons, and dozens of 5K and 10K runs.  In the fall of 2007 she was featured on NBC's Today Show to spotlight her participation in the New York Marathon, what she calls a milestone. Although it was her fifth marathon, the 26.2 mile trek would be the first race she ran without the weight of chemotherapy.

“If there was an Olympic event for people who've beat the odds, Michael Phelps would be sharing the winner's platform and cover of Sports Illustrated with Jenny McDevitt,” said TMF President, Jennifer Brusstar.  “She is truly inspirational and is a hero to us all.”

Joggin for the Noggin raised over $25,000 for the Tug McGraw Foundation and the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University through the generous support of sponsors and through the fundraising efforts of individual participants.

Jenny will be running for Team McGraw again this fall in the ING New York City Marathon, to learn more or support Jenny, click here.