

My Story <3
Amanda Veltri
Amanda Veltri
My name is Amanda Veltri, and I’m running the 2026 New York City Marathon in honor of my dad, John Veltri.
Shortly after moving to New York City, I lost my father after his long and difficult battle with addiction and bipolar disorder. For most of his adult life, he struggled in ways that slowly took him away from himself and from the people who loved him most. My family and I experienced firsthand the emotional toll this disease takes, not just on the individual, but on everyone around them.
As I got older, I had to create distance as his illness became dangerous. In many ways, I lost my dad long before he passed away. But I held on tightly to the memories of who he was, the dad I grew up loving. He was kind, deeply loved, and made a lasting impact on so many people. I truly believe he wanted to get better, but addiction is a powerful disease, and for some, help comes too late.
That is why I’m choosing to run, not just in his memory, but for others who still have a chance.
I am running in support of Partnership to End Addiction, an organization that provides critical resources, guidance, and support to families navigating substance use. My dad’s battle began in college, and I believe that early intervention and education can change the trajectory of someone’s life. If sharing my story and raising funds can help even one family avoid this kind of loss, it will be worth it.
Your support means everything. Donations will go directly toward helping families access the tools they need to prevent and address addiction early. If you are unable to give, sharing this page is another powerful way to make an impact.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me.
*Donations made to Partnership to End Addiction are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. All contributions are fully tax-deductible, as no goods or services are provided in consideration in whole, or in part, of any contribution to this nonprofit organization. EIN: 52-1736502
Shortly after moving to New York City, I lost my father after his long and difficult battle with addiction and bipolar disorder. For most of his adult life, he struggled in ways that slowly took him away from himself and from the people who loved him most. My family and I experienced firsthand the emotional toll this disease takes, not just on the individual, but on everyone around them.
As I got older, I had to create distance as his illness became dangerous. In many ways, I lost my dad long before he passed away. But I held on tightly to the memories of who he was, the dad I grew up loving. He was kind, deeply loved, and made a lasting impact on so many people. I truly believe he wanted to get better, but addiction is a powerful disease, and for some, help comes too late.
That is why I’m choosing to run, not just in his memory, but for others who still have a chance.
I am running in support of Partnership to End Addiction, an organization that provides critical resources, guidance, and support to families navigating substance use. My dad’s battle began in college, and I believe that early intervention and education can change the trajectory of someone’s life. If sharing my story and raising funds can help even one family avoid this kind of loss, it will be worth it.
Your support means everything. Donations will go directly toward helping families access the tools they need to prevent and address addiction early. If you are unable to give, sharing this page is another powerful way to make an impact.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

Sarita Pelaez



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