City: Minneapolis

Race: Marathon

Fundraising Goal: $2,000

Race Goal (time/just finish!): 4:45 (just finish!)

In a few sentences, describe your connection to U2FP, why you chose to run in support of U2FP, and whether you have a personal connection to spinal cord injury and paralysis: I wanted to run with U2FP because movement is a privilege, and I wanted to use my desire to compete in the upcoming marathon to support people who face greater challenges than myself. My cousin, my colleague, and a family friend have experienced spinal cord injuries. These injuries altered their lives and the lives of those closest to them, and I am deeply inspired by the numerous ways they have bravely met the world going forward. I wanted to contribute what I can towards supporting those facing such experiences, and the long road through therapy and rehabilitation, now and in the future.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? It is my first marathon, not my first race. I’ve done a number of 5Ks in the past.

What do you crave after a long run? Chocolate milk!

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? Sometimes I listen to Doja Cat and Nicki Minaj, usually nothing.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? The distance! Training mindfully so as to increase endurance without unnecessary injury.

What is an interesting or unique fact about yourself (or anything else you’d like to share)? I used to work as a stand-up comic pre-pandemic.