Scarlett James, a member of Fred’s Team in the NYC Marathon, has a personal connection to the cause. At just 6 years old, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 T-cell leukemia and lymphoma, a rare form of cancer. After receiving treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), she was declared cancer-free in 2019. Since then, James has been actively involved in raising funds for pediatric cancer research, contributing over $4 million to date.
Her family’s involvement in the New York City Marathon goes beyond fundraising. Many of her close relatives have participated in the marathon, inspiring James to one day join them once she is eligible. Despite not being able to compete due to her age, James remains passionate about the event and the cause it supports.
This year, James’s mother and uncle will be running for Fred’s Team, continuing the family tradition of participation in the marathon. Seeing her family members run past her brings out a mix of emotions for James, as they run in honor of her and others affected by cancer.
In addition to fundraising, James is committed to supporting pediatric cancer patients. She emphasizes the importance of letting these young patients know that they are not alone in their journey. Cancer can be isolating, especially for children, and James wants to ensure that they feel supported and surrounded by a community that understands what they are going through.
Looking to the future, James hopes to continue her advocacy work for cancer research and support for patients. Her experience with cancer at a young age has shaped her perspective and motivated her to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges. As she continues to raise awareness and funds for MSK, James remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for both survivors and those still fighting the battle against cancer.
