Brooke Burdge Runs the NYC Marathon in Memory of Casey

The back of Brooke's shirt

One of Casey’s best friends from Fordham University, Brooke Burdge, ran the NYC Marathon on Nov. 7, 2010 in Casey’s memory. The proceeds raised through the donations to Brooke’s race went to Back On My Feet, an organization that supports the homeless. Brooke completed her first marathon (26.2 miles) in an amazing 4 hours and 17 minutes!

According to Brooke in her pre-marathon reflection,” I think about Casey a lot when I run.  I guess it’s because of the overwhelming feeling I get that I am alive and present. Although she is not physically present with me each day, I still feel her with me and see signs of her…. I know I’d probably be getting a text from Casey before the marathon that said something along the lines of “Good luck, boo!!! You’re a beast!!”  And I know she’d be out in the crowd somewhere to watch and cheer me on…..  I won’t see her—but she’ll be there.”

 Brooke’s message immediately after the race: ” Lady Gaga played outside by a DJ at Mile 8… Casey!… Woman in front of me dressed in all pink as the Pink Panther at the start…

I had our picture on the back of my shirt… three other runners came up at different points and touched my shoulder and said “Caseys with you now”…

Touched her bracelets when I felt weak.  Felt a burst of energy at Miles 24-26…. 

Amazing amazing amazing day… happiest day of my life.”

View additional photos in the photo gallery on CaseyFeldmanMemories.org.