City: El Paso, TX

Profession: Occupational Therapist

Fundraising Goal: $1,000

Race Goal (time/just finish!): 4:30

I've been an Occupational Therapist for 9 years; the majority of my experience has been in the inpatient rehab setting. During my time as an OT I have had the privilege of treating people who have recently had paralysis injuries such as a traumatic spinal cord injury, non-traumatic spinal cord injury, and strokes. I have seen the impact paralysis has had on a person not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally which has held a special place in my heart. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with these people in their most vulnerable and lowest points in their lives. Through OT I am able to help them regain strength, become more independent, and even though it will look very different than before, regain their life. In helping these patients get better, they have truly made me a better therapist and overall person. I connected with U2FP's mission and was immediately drawn to participating in fundraising and bringing more resources to such an important cause.

This will be my second marathon. I did the local El Paso Marathon in 2015 and got a taste of being part of this selective marathon community.

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis is proud to once again be a charity partner for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2022! Help support U2FP’s initiatives to accelerate curative treatments for those living with Spinal Cord Injuries. Team U2FP members have raised nearly $200,000 in the past few years. Thank you for your support to advance research towards a cure for spinal cord injury!