Ben's Twin Cities Marathon for Children's Minnesota
Against All Odds: My Journey from the NICU to the Marathon
Against All Odds: My Journey from the NICU to the Marathon
Hi everyone,
My name is Ben Wellborn. I’m running the Twin Cities Marathon on October 4th, 2026 to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is near and dear to my heart, the NICU & Neonatal Program at Children’s Hospital.
A little about me: I was born a micro-premie at 26 weeks in 2001 weighing 1.7 pounds. Doctors gave me a 40% chance of surviving my first 3 days. Against all odds, I spent 3 months in the NICU before finally going home from Dallas Baylor Medical City Hospital. I am now training to run 26.2 miles.
These breakthroughs over the past 25 years have been made possible through funding for specialized research, innovative medical procedures, advanced technology, and highly trained healthcare professionals. With your support, we can ensure that premature babies will continue to receive top of the line lifesaving medical care giving them a chance at a healthy life.
I am living proof of the impact these programs have when they are properly supported.
No contribution is too small, any amount you choose to give is much appreciated! I look forward to sharing my journey as I prepare to run 26.2 miles in support of Children’s Minnesota on October 4th, 2026!
Thank you for your time.
Ben Wellborn :)
Children's Minnesota
We champion the health needs of children and families. We are committed to improving children’s health by providing the highest-quality, family-centered care, advanced through research and education.


