A run to remember

For some of us, a year is just another year. For others, events take place in a year’s time that change a person’s life. For Alissa Ross-Marks, daughter of Hillsboro dentist Dr. Robert Ross, thinking back to one year ago brings a special remembrance and heartache.

One year ago, Marks' mother, Michelle Ross, lost her 13-year battle to cancer.

“Mom was diagnosed with cancer in 2000," Marks said. "I’m not a doctor or a researcher, and I wasn’t going to find a cure for cancer, but I knew I couldn’t just sit around and do nothing.”

Marks found her answer by doing endurance events for charity to raise money and awareness to honor her mom’s struggle and battle with cancer.

The proudest moment in Marks’ life was having her mom there to watch her finish Ironman Lake Placid in 2012, completely decked out with “AMarks” gear and signs.

A few months after her mother’s passing, Marks decided to start training for the Dublin Ireland Marathon. Marks is no stranger to endurance events, but this one proved to be one of the most challenging yet. Why? Because this time, instead of racing in her mother Michelle Ross’ honor, as she had done so many times in the past, she would run in her memory.

In addition to Marks making the decision to run, she also wanted to raise funds for the organization that provided comfort and support to her mom and family when they needed it most, Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley.

“I wanted to give back to those individuals who took such amazing care of my mom in her final days,” Marks said. “We knew we were facing the end stages of her life, but Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley provided us with the comfort and support we needed during that time and even now, a year later.”

Marks completed the race in the fall and raised nearly $4,700 in her efforts for Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley.

“Just like all of my races in the past, I’m certain my mom was watching me as I crossed the finish line … and I know she was proud,” Marks said.