Run for a Reason: Strides 4 Gianluca Takes On The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon
On Sunday, November 1, 2026, Gianluca’s father, Vittorio Aconi, will take on the streets of the world’s most iconic race—the TCS New York City Marathon.
This year’s 26.2-mile journey through all five boroughs is about more than crossing a finish line. Vittorio will proudly run for Strides 4 Gianluca, raising awareness for cerebral palsy (CP) while honoring the memory of his father and Gianluca’s beloved Nonno, Nicola Aconi, who courageously battled mesothelioma before passing away on January 13, 2026.
The bond between Gianluca, Vittorio, and Nicola was unbreakable. Nicola’s love, encouragement, and unwavering support helped shape the foundation of our mission. This marathon is dedicated not only to increasing awareness for cerebral palsy but also to celebrating Nicola’s life, his strength, and the incredible love he shared with his family.
Our blue and green awareness ribbon represents that lasting connection. Green symbolizes cerebral palsy awareness, while blue represents mesothelioma awareness. Together, they tell the story of two journeys connected by resilience, hope, and the determination to make a difference.
Every mile Vittorio runs is in honor of CP warriors, cancer warriors, and the families who walk beside them every day.
Help Us Create a Lasting Legacy
We invite you to become part of this meaningful journey by making a donation to support our mission. Your generosity will help fund two scholarships that celebrate resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
Strides 4 Gianluca Scholarship Fund
The Strides 4 Gianluca Scholarship Fund recognizes outstanding students with disabilities who have demonstrated perseverance in overcoming challenges while remaining committed to academic achievement and their future aspirations.
Our goal is to invest in the next generation of leaders, advocates, and professionals who will help create a more inclusive, accessible, and compassionate world.
4 NONNO Cancer Courage Scholarship
Established in memory of Nicola Aconi, the 4 NONNO Cancer Courage Scholarship honors resilient students whose lives have been impacted by cancer—whether they are survivors, currently receiving treatment, or have an immediate family member who has faced a cancer diagnosis.
This scholarship celebrates students who have shown remarkable courage, determination, and perseverance while pursuing their educational goals despite the challenges cancer has presented. Through this fund, we hope to empower future leaders, advocates, and game changers who will positively impact their communities and inspire others through their resilience.
Every Mile Matters
When Vittorio steps onto the Verrazzano Bridge to begin the 2026 New York City Marathon, he won’t be running alone. He will carry the strength of Gianluca, the memory of Nicola, and the hopes of every individual and family affected by cerebral palsy and cancer.
Your support helps transform every stride into greater awareness, every mile into opportunity, and every finish line into a lasting legacy.
Please consider making a donation today. Together, we can honor Nicola’s memory, champion cerebral palsy awareness, support courageous students, and continue changing lives—one stride at a time.
