SCOTCH PLAINS–At only 22 years old, Jeannette Franzone has seen more tragedy from cancer than many people twice her age.
After her mother died from leukemia when Jeannette was 14, her father Joseph stepped in to raise her on his own. When he died five years later from colon cancer, Jeannette’s world fell apart. Although she was surrounded by family and friends in her hometown of Scotch Plains, the now college senior became an orphan all too young. But instead of letting the sadness and hurt take over, Jeannette is showing the world that she is living on for her parents by running the Long Branch Half Marathon on May 3, and raising money for the American Cancer Society at the same time. “My dad loved running,” she said. “I have only ran small 5k races, but when I heard that American Cancer Society’s Charity Runner program gives people the opportunity to participate in an event and raise money to help others, I knew it was my time to step up, lace up my shoes, and run for my parents.” “I wish my parents were there with me cheering me on, and I know my dad would run with me if he were here. But I know they’ll both be with me in spirit on race day. I know I’ll feel their presence pushing me across the finish line,” she said. “My goal is to finish this race so that I can spread hope to those suffering as my parents did.” Jeannette has already raised more than $1,000. Over the years, more than 4,000 athletes have helped raise $5.2 million through Charity Runner, making significant progress in the fight against cancer, and every mile more meaningful. If interested in running as a Charity Runner and raising much-needed money for the American Cancer Society, visit Charity Runner. For more information about the Charity Runner program or to find an event in your area, visit