A British Columbia man has completed an extraordinary physical and emotional feat to support a family shattered by tragedy. Mark Nendick ran continuously for 24 hours to raise money for the children of a woman who was killed in Merritt, B.C., last month.
A Run Fueled by Compassion
The marathon effort, which took place on January 11, 2026, was driven by a simple, powerful goal. "I want her legacy to live on," Nendick stated, referring to the slain woman. His run was not about personal achievement but about providing tangible support for her grieving children, ensuring they feel the embrace of their community during an unimaginably difficult time.
Turning Grief into Action
Nendick's 24-hour endurance challenge represents a profound act of turning collective grief into positive action. The fundraiser directly addresses the immediate and future needs of the young family members left behind. While the specific amount raised was not disclosed in the initial report, the act itself has galvanized local attention around the family's plight and the broader issue of community violence.
The incident that prompted this response occurred in Merritt, B.C., in December 2025. The woman's death sent shockwaves through the small community, highlighting the urgent need for support systems in the wake of violent crime.
Community Solidarity in the Face of Tragedy
Events like Nendick's marathon run serve a dual purpose. Primarily, they generate crucial financial aid for victims' families. Secondly, they foster a powerful sense of solidarity, showing those affected that they are not alone. This public demonstration of care can be a critical component of the long healing process for both the family and the community of Merritt.
Such grassroots fundraising efforts often fill gaps that official channels may not immediately address, covering expenses from daily living costs to counseling and educational needs for the children.
Mark Nendick's 24-hour run stands as a testament to the resilience and compassion that can emerge from tragedy. It underscores how individual initiative can mobilize resources and hope, ensuring that a mother's memory is honored through concrete support for her children's future.
