Mom runs marathon to support son

hile most college students worry about their wardrobe and night plans and maybe stress about paying rent, Vanessa Pedraza is facing battles significantly more important these days.

As if being a nursing major at Amarillo College doesn't take enough dedication, Vanessa also is preparing to run a marathon in honor of her little boy, Alex Molnar, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor about four years ago.

The marathon will be Saturday in downtown Memphis, Tenn., and will include 3,500 other participants running to help raise money for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

"I do this to honor the strength and courage my son has continually shown over the last few years," Pedraza said.

She has run half-marathons twice and for the first time this year will compete in the entire 26.2-mile race. St. Jude has helped her and her son tremendously throughout their trying situation and helped them raise almost $1,000. She said running the race is her way of giving back.

A fundraiser to support Pedraza and her son is set up online at www.mystjudeheros.org/alexmolnar.

Fitness instructor Patricia McGuire also is taking donations. McGuire can be reached at 806-371-5285.

The race began in 1977 and has been associated with St. Jude since 2002.