#TeamKidney 2026 Chicago Marathon: Jill Powell

Spotlight on #TeamKidneyCHI marathon runner Jill Powell!

"Every mile is a tribute, a promise, and a step toward greater hope for kidney patients and their families"

Jill Powell @ NKF Kidney Walk

Jill's passion for kidney health comes from a simple belief: she believes education can make a real difference. Through her role with UNC Kidney Center, she has seen how awareness, prevention, and early screening can help so many people protect their kidney health before disease progresses.

A big part of that work happened out in the community, through mobile screenings, education programs, and outreach across North Carolina. Her connection to the National Kidney Foundation grew from that same mission: helping more people learn about kidney disease, get screened, and feel supported.

"Education and awareness can make a real difference in protecting kidney health."

Now she is taking that mission to the Chicago Marathon with #TeamKidneyCHI, running in support of NKFI. The race location also means a lot personally. Her late mom grew up in Chicago and loved the city, so every mile feels like a way to honor her while supporting a cause close to her heart.

For Jill, this marathon is about more than getting to the finish line. It is about honoring her mom, showing up for the kidney community, and helping create a healthier future.

Jill with family @ her first marathon in Richmond

We're so excited to have Jill on #TeamKidney & we can't wait to cheer her on at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 11, 2026!