NYC Marathon Runner Raises Funds For Chester Nonprofit, In Memory Of Aunt

CHESTER, NJ — A local man who will be running the New York City Marathon is collecting donations to benefit a Chester nonprofit, in memory of his beloved aunt.

John O’Shea will be running in the NYC Marathon on Sunday, alongside around 50,000 other participants. O’Shea, however, will be running to raise money for a local cancer charity that is dedicated to his Aunt Eileen.

After being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 17, O’Shea’s aunt underwent treatment and eventually achieved remission. It wasn’t until years later that the cancer returned, and she lost her battle against it.

Now, O’Shea and his family have started a battle of their own, one to help defeat cancer entirely. The Eileen Fund raises money for cancer research, supporting new drugs, treatments, and more to help those who are fighting the same battle his aunt did.

“Eileen was an incredible mother, daughter, sister, friend, and aunt, she lived her life with grace, boldness, and unstoppable energy,” O’Shea said. “In the competitive world of fashion, she was a true powerhouse — known for her brilliance, style, and strength. But beyond her professional success, it was her compassion, warmth, and love for others that left a lasting impact.”

A GoFundMe that was launched to support O’Shea’s run and The Eileen Fund has already raised nearly $20,000. All donations will go towards The Eileen Fund to help support “cutting-edge cancer research.”

“This run is for her. This run is for everyone who’s battled cancer,” O’Shea said. “And this run is for a future where precision medicine saves more lives.”

Click here to donate to O’Shea’s “Miles for Miracles” mission, and visit the Eileen Fund’s website to learn more about its cause.