WHY I'M RUNNING:
Running has been a hobby of mine since high school. I ran my first half-marathon race (13.1 miles) in 2019 as a senior in college. I brought running with me to Philly as a grad student, entered the 2020 Broad Street 10-miler, and completed it virtually during the pandemic.

Then, in the fall of 2021, I injured myself, and that kicked off a series of injuries that kept me from running for nearly two years.

While I resumed physical activity at a certain point, running still felt uncertain to me. I didn't know what would trigger injuries, and I didn't know when to take the next step— until I got an invitation, in fall of 2023, to run a 5K (3.10 miles) with friends. I began training for the race in the thick of grief. Like it does for many, running became an outlet for healing through grief and reconnection with my body. It also became a vessel for conversation between me and God.

Before my friends and I even raced the 5K late fall, I decided to sign up for my second half-marathon, which would take place in April 2024. I started attending 6Run5 in Nashville and joined their half training program. During the training season, I began feeling a pain on the outside of my left leg. I learned that I had an IT band injury and physical therapy would be necessary to make the race possible. I was so discouraged to have a setback shortly after I'd taken a brave step forward.

There was a moment when my physical therapist didn't know if I'd even be able to race. But, we worked together on a plan that made sense for me (shoutout to Courtney). On race day, I used a run-walk plan every mile, and slowing down ended up speeding me up. I PR'd by 1 minute. Most importantly, I finished.

Since that race in 2024, I've run an additional 10 mile race and two more half-marathons.
Coming off the heels of these races, and the most miles I've ever run in a single year, I am ready to run my first marathon (26.2 miles).

It seems fitting:
⭐ I am entering my last year of my 20s. I ran my first half at 21. Running has been so dear to me this decade. This new challenge will be a wonderful way to bookend a decade that has deepened my relationship with God, fortified my faith, grown my community, fostered my creativity and spirit, and strengthened my ability to endure grief, challenges, and transition.

⭐ NYC has been my home for two years now. I love its people and culture, and I love running its bridges and streets.

⭐ I am fundraising for New Life CDC, an organization I know firsthand makes an incredible impact on the people of this city. With a particular focus on neighbors with limited English proficiency, lack of access to affordable healthcare and/or insurance, significant housing insecurity, and undocumented immigration status, I am confident that the NL CDC, which has existed for 31 years, is meeting this moment in our country with the care, compassion, wisdom, and expertise needed to truly make a difference.

As I consider my running journey from high school to now, it reminds me that, like life, no season is perfect. There will be aches and pains. My body will not move every way I want it to first try. I will need to reach and then reach again.

My heart reminds me that every run is worthwhile. Every step matters. That choosing to run again is an act of bravery.

My faith in God reminds me that He is more than able to turn things around. That how things feel in one moment is not how they will feel forever. That He works everything out for my good (see: Romans 8:28). He is in the imperfections and disappointment—when prayers are not answered in the way I expect.

My family, friends, fellow runners, and that one uncle on Myrtle Ave saying, “keep going,” remind me that I am not alone. Community matters. They benefit from witnessing my journey, as I benefit from witnessing theirs.


HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT:

If you are reading this, you're likely already a part of my community in one way. Now, I want to invite you into my running and NYC community in a new way by donating to this fundraising campaign.

A gift of any size will make you a part of this journey to benefit New Life CDC and make my run possible. Certain gifts of particular sizes, as outlined below, come with additional perks and opportunities. No matter what gift level you choose, I appreciate your prayers and support, and I am grateful you're contributing to the flourishing of beloved New York City neighbors.

Unable to give right now? Here are three ways you can still support:
1. Set a reminder to give at a time that works better for you.
2. Text or email this fundraiser to a friend or family member to ask them for their support.
3. Pray for every NL CDC fundraising goal to be reached (and exceeded), for my training cycle to be injury free and strong, and for a wonderful and safe race day for all runners.

GIVING PERKS:

📱(STRAVA) KUDO CUTIES:
Gifts of $25 or more will grant you a social media shoutout (tagging is optional and will only be possible if I know your handle).

👏 RUN CLUB:
Gifts of $75 or more will grant you access to special updates on my *training journey through Substack or another TBD channel.

🤜🤛 PEP SQUAD:
Gifts of $150 or more will enter you into a drawing for a $30 gift card to be redeemed at a Black owned restaurant of your choice.

💖 HUDDLE:
Gifts of $250 or more will enter you into a drawing for a $30 On (apparel/shoe brand) gift card.

Notes: Run Club - Huddle tiers include the perks outlined in the tiers before them. Gift card drawings will occur by October 1, 2026. | *Training will likely begin in July.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU 💐