Finishers Challenge
Heather Forchilli – Finishers Challenge 2025
I Completed the Challenge—But the Mission Isn’t Over
From July 17–20, 2025, I participated in the Why Me Finishers Ruck Challenge: a 4-day, military-inspired endurance event where I carried everything I needed on my back and hiked over 130 miles—facing spontaneous challenges, undisclosed maps, brutal terrain, and long, hot days. It was the hardest physical and mental challenge I’ve ever endured.
But I didn’t do this for the miles.
I did this for them—the children and families facing pediatric cancer.
My “why” for this challenge is simple yet powerful: I believe in the mission of Why Me & Sherry’s House, an organization that provides critical, compassionate support to families navigating childhood cancer. They offer so much more than services—they offer hope, understanding, and community when it’s needed most.
This challenge was designed to mirror, in the smallest way, the uncertainty and pain these families experience. Each morning, we were handed a map and a challenge—just as these families wake up never knowing what news the day might bring.
One of those families is Kailiah’s. After five years post-transplant, she is cancer-free. Her mom was there every day of our event, cheering us on, handing us our flags, and placing my finisher medal around my neck. She thanked me for what I went through—but every painful step was for her and families like hers.
While I’ve crossed the finish line, the journey for these families continues—and that’s why I’m still fundraising.
My goal is to raise $10,000 for Why Me. Every dollar goes directly to supporting families battling the unimaginable—through emotional support, housing, meals, financial assistance, bereavement support, and more.
If my story has moved you, please consider donating. No amount is too small. Your support helps Why Me continue to be a light in the darkest of times.
Together, we can make sure no family faces childhood cancer alone.
Thank you for your generosity, support, and belief in this mission.
💙
Heather
Donation: $25
name: Anonymous
Thank you for all your efforts to raise awareness for this very worthy cause!