Evanston Mom, Daughter Train To Tackle Chicago Marathon Together

EVANSTON, IL — An Evanston family is training for a major milestone this fall as Megan Lassman prepares to push her daughter, Penelope, through the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Oct. 11.

Penelope Lassman, a Park School transition student, and her mother have been working toward the 26.2-mile race since the spring. Megan Lassman set the goal two years ago, ahead of her 50th birthday. The pair previously ran together in the Chicago half marathon in 2024.

Megan Lassman told NBC Chicago that the training has been both meaningful and demanding.

Lassman said the marathon effort is about more than completing the course; it's about visibility, promoting inclusion and celebrating individuals with disabilities in the community. She also hopes that running with her daughter helps educate people and brings a smile to their faces.

Evanston/Skokie School District 65 also recognized the family’s effort.

“We couldn't be prouder to cheer on Team Lassman as they log the miles before race day,” district officials said.

The physical challenge is significant, Lassman said, because Penelope weighs around 115 pounds, and her adaptive wheelchair weighs another 40 pounds.

The training effort puts a local face on disability inclusion and community support as race day approaches.

People who want to keep up with the family’s progress can follow Megan and Penelope Lassman on Instagram at @thehairandthechair.