Family, Hope & Cancer Support Fuels First-time Marathoner

Kayla Axelrod is an avid runner, just like her father. This November the New York native will follow in her dad’s footsteps (pardon the pun) when she ties up her laces to compete in her first TCS New York City Marathon — her first full marathon. 

Kayla's dad has run the famous 5-borough course himself. In fact, 25 years ago, he proposed to Kayla’s mom at the iconic race. 

“I’ve always been inspired by that,” Kayla says.

Kayla has been eyeing the NYC Marathon for years. She’s just been waiting for the right time to run, and the right cause to support in the endeavor. “I’ve always wanted to run it with an organization that I felt connected to in some way, shape, or form.” 

Six years ago, Kayla didn’t know about the Cancer Support Community or its free support resources for patients and families facing cancer. Back then, what Kayla did know was the heartache of a cancer diagnosis. In 2020, her dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer that currently has no cure and requires lifelong treatment.

Since then, Kayla says, “We’ve been through a lot of different stages to cope with it."

Now in her mid-20s, Kayla is among an estimated 2 million young adult caregivers in the United States. While she learned to navigate the ups and downs of her dad’s diagnosis, the right support never seemed to be within reach.

“People sometimes forget that as a caregiver, and especially as a young adult, you're going through something that’s going to shape you for the rest of your life,” she reflects. “The cancer experience can feel very lonely and isolating, even if you have a great support system. You don't always know who you can talk to about it. Your immediate family may understand what you are going through, but every person's experience is different.”

Then, a few years ago, Kayla was introduced to CSC through her work with New York City-based communications agency MMC. She played an instrumental role in a major campaign to increase public awareness about Cancer Support Community's Cancer Support Helpline number: CSC-867-5309 (272-867-5309). Through that work, she became knowledgeable and passionate about CSC’s work and mission.

“Meeting with so many people at CSC, I've not only been able to share my story, but I’ve received empathy, understanding, and advice. That’s significant," says Kayla. “Talking with people who can understand my family’s cancer experience — and provide support that feels true and authentic to our experience — is such a special thing that CSC has given me."

Not long ago, Kayla’s mom received a cancer diagnosis. This time, Kayla knew where to turn for extra support. She knew she could access CSC’s digital resources online, anytime, anywhere. And if she ever needed an empathetic ear, she knew she could call the Cancer Support Helpline and talk with one of the team’s experienced navigators.

“For me, the biggest thing was to not be afraid to ask for help. I know that sounds cliche, but the beauty of Cancer Support Community is there is a Helpline. You can remain anonymous. You don't have to go into any detail if you don’t want to. You can speak to a licensed professional who can give you clear next steps and point you to the right resources — support groups, therapists, things like that, which can help you move toward the next step.”

Today Kayla’s mom and dad are doing well. Both her parents will be on her mind on November 1 as she runs the 26.2 mile stretch to the finish line. Kayla has already put her training plan into gear, and she has a great mentor.

“My dad has been so supportive and gives me so many tips — you need energy gels, drink a lot of water, incorporate strength training into your plan. I wouldn't have known where to start without him. So that's been really helpful.” 

For Kayla, running with Cancer Support Community’s CSC United team in the NYC Marathon this fall felt like a shoo-in, given everything she has learned about our global nonprofit and its mission to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer.

Every mile of the race will bring Kayla one mile closer to her goal to support CSC and everyone impacted by cancer. And every step of the way, our community will be cheering her on. Please join us. Support Kayla as she runs toward hope, healing, and a future where no one faces cancer alone.