How I Started Running:
In the Fall of 2011, I attended a Women’s Health event and met a coach from The American Cancer Society Determination Team. He was at the event talking about marathons and convinced me to train with the Determination team for the 2012 NYC Half Marathon. I didn’t even think when I signed up. All I know is that I needed an outlet for my feelings because my father was recovering from a stroke and running was an excellent way to honor him.
My Favorite Moments / Biggest Accomplishments:
Crossing that finish line for my first race was amazing. I was hooked on running. I signed up for another half marathon and decided to become a fundraising mentor for the Determination Team.
In 2014, I signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon. I was psyched and couldn’t wait to run with the Marines and make my daddy proud (he was a U.S. Marine). Unfortunately, a stress fracture caused me to defer the race until 2015.
Running has brought many blessings to my life. I have met awesome people from all over the world who I get to call friends. Most importantly, I met my husband through running. We are happy and love to run together. We both crossed the finish line at the 2015 Marine Corp Marathon and the 2017 New York City Marathon.
Future Goals:
I am running the Marine Corps Marathon this year and honoring my father’s memory. He loved to run, especially barefoot at the beach. I go out on every run and think of him. I am also thinking about training for an Ironman but still debating if I have what it takes for a full Ironman.