Many people take part in the numerous races held in the most magical place on earth, Walt Disney World. But siblings Lee and Ashlee have decided to dedicate their involvement with the Disney Princess 5k to their mother, Melody who passed from ALS in 2024. Dressed as Mushu and Mulan, characters from the movie Mulan, the brother and sister ran to raise awareness and funds for ALS. They have shared their story with us in their own words.  

“On October 23, 2023, our family's world was flipped upside down when our mother, Melody Ann Iturralde, was diagnosed with ALS after a year of progressive health issues. At that moment, the future became unknown, except that we had to make the most of what time we had with her. 
 
In the 93 days that followed, Mom moved in with my sister, Ashlee, who became her caregiver. I spent as much time as possible in Texas with her, navigating my life in NYC and flying back and forth. We cherished Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and two family birthdays together, creating new memories, laughing, and being there for each other through this wild ride called life.  

However, time was not on our side. Mom left this side of heaven on the morning of January 24, 2024, due to complications from ALS.   
 
Every family deserves longer than 93 days to spend with their loved ones. That is why we are personally committed to the ALS Association and making a difference in the fight against ALS. 
 
In honor of our mother, Melody, we ran the Disney Princess 5K on Friday, February 21, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. The race was the culmination of the year anniversary of her passing on January 24th, what would have been her 60th birthday on February 20th, and a true celebration of the woman she was in "the most magical place on Earth." Despite the freezing weather, the weekend was truly magical. Every step was for her and for those affected by ALS - past, present, and future.  This journey has been about more than running - it's been about love, resilience, and turning our pain into action.