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Jamie Graves serves as Secretary of the KCA’s Board of Directors and is the Director of State & Local Affairs at BP America.

We spoke with Jamie about her father, who died of kidney cancer, and her service on the Board.

What motivated you to get involved with the Kidney Cancer Association?
My dad was diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer in 2001. During this time, we were introduced to the KCA who provided tremendous resources and support during his seven year battle. Following his passing, I began fundraising for the organization. Every year, I run 26.2 miles in the Chicago Marathon in memory of the 26 years I had with him. My husband Jon and I have raised more than $25,000 for the KCA. 

Length of time on the Board or working with the KCA?
I joined the Board in the winter of 2017 and have been fundraising for the KCA for seven years.

What is your favorite travel destination and why?
Jon and I go to Munich for Oktoberfest. The opportunity to enjoy beers and brats with six million of my closest friends is not to be missed. 

What do you like to do in your free time?
I love coaching my marathon team through the Chicago Area Runners Association. I’m honored to help many of them achieve a lifetime goal.

What is one thing most people do not know about you?
My first job was in the construction trades for Heat & Frost Insulators Local 17. 

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