Marisa's Mascots was created after Marisa Smock passed away on May 6th, 2015, following a severe asthma attack. She was a freshman at John Carroll University, studying to become a Spanish teacher and playing on the JCU Women's Lacrosse team. More than anything, Marisa was a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter, a niece and cousin, and an amazing friend. She was also a beloved babysitter, a D2 lacrosse goalie, an iconic HS mascot, and a free spirit who lit up every room and person she encountered.
In 2022, Marisa's Mascots launched the first Fun Run & Walk to honor Marisa's life and raise support for asthma education, research, and advocacy, with the hope of preventing other families from experiencing this kind of loss.
As the event grew, so did the community around it. We expanded our reach by partnering with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America in 2025 to create the Asthma Allies Fun Run & Walk. Today, the event brings together the Marisa's Mascots community and new friends like Team Gavazzi, Supernova Stars, and many others impacted by asthma.
Over the past 4 years, this community has raised more than $60,000 for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the leading organization dedicated to helping people with asthma and allergies through advocacy, education, research, and support.
This event is about remembrance, connection, and action. It is a space to honor loved ones, support people living with asthma, and build a future where no lives are lost because of this disease.