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Celebrating a Runner, Doctor, and Survivor Making Every Mile Matter
Ronald McDonald House New York is proud to celebrate Christopher Jackson, a devoted marathon runner, pediatric oncologist, and cancer survivor, who has been named one of the four recipients of the inaugural Miles That Matter Award presented by Citizens Bank and New York Road Runners (NYRR).
The Miles That Matter Award honors local heroes of the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon—individuals whose strength, compassion, and commitment to their communities inspire others to run with purpose. Each honoree represents a story of courage and giving back, with their chosen nonprofit receiving a $26,200 grant from the Citizens Philanthropic Foundation, symbolizing the 26.2 miles of the marathon.
“The Citizens Miles That Matter Award is a tribute to the unwavering determination and spirit of the iconic New York City Marathon,” said Rebecca O’Connell, New York Metro Market President at Citizens. “These four runners don’t just represent athletic achievement—they embody the resiliency that defines New Yorkers and capture why the race is so special to the city.”
Running for Families and the Future
For Christopher Jackson, the marathon represents more than a race—it’s a homecoming and a celebration of life.
Twenty years ago, Chris was diagnosed with leukemia as a teenager. This November, he will run 26.2 miles in tribute to his journey of healing and resilience, marking two decades since his diagnosis.
Today, he serves as a physician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, specializing in pediatric brain tumors, dedicating his career to caring for children facing the same challenges he once endured. His marathon fundraising efforts directly support Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH-NY), a place that offers families of children with serious illnesses the compassionate care and emotional support they need while seeking treatment in New York City.
“Ronald McDonald House New York is proud to be part of Christopher’s incredible story,” said Dr. Ruth C. Browne, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House New York. “He represents the strength, empathy, and perseverance that inspire our mission every day. We’re deeply grateful to Citizens Bank and New York Road Runners for recognizing his impact and for supporting the families we serve.”
About the Miles That Matter Award
Launched in 2025, the Miles That Matter Award is a joint initiative between Citizens Bank and New York Road Runners. The program honors marathon participants who embody resilience, generosity, and the drive to make a positive difference. Each recipient’s designated charity receives a $26,200 donation to further their mission and amplify their community impact.
This year’s awardees include:
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Natasha Whitling (Brooklyn) — running for The Pink Agenda, celebrating ten years cancer-free.
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Erik Lochtefeld (Brooklyn) — running for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, following surgery to remove a brain tumor.
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Bryan Baratian (Manhattan) — running for iMentor, supporting first-generation college students.
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Christopher Jackson (Manhattan) — running for Ronald McDonald House New York, where families find care and community during pediatric cancer treatment.
“The TCS New York City Marathon is the best day of the year in the best city in the world,” said Christine Burke, Chief Commercial Officer at NYRR. “We’re proud to partner with Citizens on the Miles That Matter Award to shine a light on individuals who are uplifting their communities and inspiring action.”
Citizens’ Commitment to the Community
Since expanding into New York in 2022, Citizens Bank has invested more than $13 million in philanthropic givingacross the Tri-State Metro area, with an emphasis on workforce development, education, and community partnerships that strengthen the social and economic fabric of the city.
Through collaborations with New York Road Runners, Queens Night Market, LISC, Pursuit, and the New York Restoration Project, Citizens continues to celebrate the resilience and creativity that define New York City. The bank’s broader mission includes a $20 million national investment in workforce development, with more than $5 million allocated specifically to programs in the New York Metro area.
A Shared Vision of Compassionate Care
At Ronald McDonald House New York, the impact of this recognition goes far beyond the award. Each grant, partnership, and story of perseverance fuels the organization’s ability to provide family-centered care, address health disparities, and promote health equity for children battling pediatric cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Every day, RMH-NY provides families with housing, meals, transportation, wellness programs, and emotional support—all delivered through a foundation of holistic care. Christopher’s journey reflects that same compassion, inspiring others to give back, stay strong, and believe that healing is not just physical—it’s deeply emotional and communal.
As he takes on this year’s marathon, every mile Christopher runs represents not only his own victory but also hope for countless families who find refuge and strength within the walls of Ronald McDonald House New York.
Read the full press release from Citizens Bank and New York Road Runners here.
Learn more about Ronald McDonald House New York and how to support families facing pediatric cancer here.
