Jeffrey’s Story

Running is more than a pastime for the Birkel family—it’s a bond that has carried them through life’s most difficult challenges. This year, they’ll take on the world’s most prestigious marathon, running not just for themselves, but for the thousands of Americans living with ALS.

On Father's Day last year, Jeff Birkel’s sons surprised him with an unforgettable gift—they told him they planned to again qualify for the 129th Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America, but this time, one of Jeff’s sons will be pushing him in a racing wheelchair. In a heartfelt display of courage and unity, Mike, Matt and Jeff will tackle the 2025 Boston Marathon together this April.

“I am incredibly overwhelmed by this gift of love from deep in their hearts. I will cherish this experience for the rest of my days,” said Jeff who is living with ALS. “Participating in the Boston Marathon as part of the ALS Association’s Team Challenge ALS together is especially meaningful to us. It is our way of turning a devastating diagnosis into an opportunity to raise awareness, bring attention to the disease and give others hope.”

A Legacy of Resilience

In December 2023, Jeff was diagnosed with ALS—a progressive, fatal disease that robs individuals of their ability to move, speak, and ultimately, breathe. Once an avid marathoner with 11 marathons under his belt, including the Boston Marathon in 2005, Jeff refuses to let ALS define him. This year’s race marked his 12th marathon. Running in the Boston Marathon as a family was a full-circle moment for the family. “My dad instilled a love of running in us. Now, we’re privileged to support him in his toughest challenge,” Matt said. 

Although Jeff, Matt and Mike have run the Boston Marathon before, they have never participated in the Boston Marathon together. “It took ALS to make that happen. ALS is not all bad and this is just another example. We wouldn't be participating in the marathon together otherwise,” Jeff said.

“This journey is about more than just crossing the finish line—it’s about making sure others facing ALS know they’re not alone.”

Mike Birkel