Help Me Support Chicago Run at the 2026 Chicago Marathon

Four years ago, I set a goal for myself: to run my first marathon. I applied for the opportunity to take on this challenge, but year after year, life seemed to put obstacles in my way. First, I tore my meniscus. Then, I suffered a major ankle injury, breaking my tibia, fibula, and heel in a trimalleolar fracture that required surgery and hardware to help rebuild my ankle. After that came a long recovery, months of learning how to walk and run again, and eventually returning to school to pursue my career as a Physical Therapist Assistant.

For a while, running a marathon felt like a dream that was always just out of reach.

But I kept going.

Through those setbacks, I learned what resilience truly means. I know what it feels like to have to start over, rebuild strength, and trust your body again. Those experiences not only changed me as a runner, but also shaped the healthcare professional I am today. As a Physical Therapist Assistant, I now have the privilege of helping others overcome their own injuries, regain their independence, and reach goals they once thought were impossible.

Since those first setbacks, I’ve gone on to complete two full marathons and two half marathons. Every mile has carried a reminder of how far I’ve come. Running with a surgically repaired left ankle and the hardware from my injury has not always been easy, but it has made every finish line that much more meaningful.

Now, I have the incredible opportunity to run my first major marathon — the 2026 Chicago Marathon — as a member of Team Chicago Run. This race represents more than just another marathon. It represents years of perseverance, recovery, and refusing to give up on a goal I once thought might not happen.

I’m proud to support Chicago Run because their mission reflects something I deeply believe in: every child deserves the opportunity to experience the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of movement. Chicago Run provides thousands of young people from Pre-K through high school with equitable access to inclusive running and physical activity programs that build confidence, resilience, and social-emotional skills.

I have personally experienced how powerful movement can be — not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. Running helped me overcome some of the hardest moments in my life, and I want to help give that same opportunity to the next generation.

I’m asking for your support as I take on this challenge. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps Chicago Run continue creating life-changing opportunities for young people. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my fundraising page with your family and friends would mean just as much.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait to represent Chicago Run at the 2026 Chicago Marathon and show that setbacks may change your path, but they don’t have to stop you from reaching your goals.