"Running for Peyton: LASD Lieutenant Marquez's Journey of Love and Determination"
March 18, 2024 - Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department officials report that Lieutenant Ethan Marquez, a seasoned veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 24 years, has dedicated himself to upholding the law and unwaveringly embracing life's challenges.
Lieutenant Marquez has served with honor and distinction from his early days as a Deputy at North County Correctional Facility to his current role as Division Aide at South Patrol Division. His journey within the Department reflects his resilience and commitment to making a difference in the community he serves.
Beyond his law enforcement duties, Lieutenant Marquez is a passionate advocate for his son, Peyton, who battles Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a disease without a cure. Witnessing Peyton's struggle fuels Lieutenant Marquez's running, even when it hurts, knowing that each marathon completed is a gift to his son—a symbol of unwavering support and love.
For Lieutenant Marquez, marathons represent more than just a personal challenge; they are a metaphor for life's journey, a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. The Los Angeles Marathon holds a special place in his heart for its iconic route and because it symbolizes hope and community—a platform to raise awareness for DMD and other disabilities.
Running alongside Peyton, Lieutenant Marquez finds strength in their shared determination. He knows that each step they take together is a testament to their bond and refusal to let adversity define them. Through his participation in marathons and fundraising for DMD research, Lieutenant Marquez channels his grief and determination into action, determined to turn a negative into a positive and help find a cure for his son and others like him.
This marathon journey isn't just about Lieutenant Marquez; it's about Peyton and the countless individuals facing similar battles. It's a reminder that disabilities do not define a person and that anything is possible with love, support, and unwavering determination. Lieutenant Marquez's journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the profound impact a father's love can have on a son's fight.
To Lieutenant Ethan Marquez and all the Los Angeles Marathon runners who run with purpose and passion, know that your dedication and courage inspire us all. As you traverse the streets of Los Angeles, each step carries the weight of your personal journey, struggles, and triumphs. Your determination to overcome obstacles, whether personal challenges or battles fought on behalf of loved ones, shines brightly as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department will salute the strength and unwavering commitment, offering our heartfelt support and encouragement every step of the way.
May your footsteps echo with the power of your convictions, reminding us anything is possible in the face of adversity, love, and determination.
View video here.
Source & photo: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
