City: Las Vegas, NV

Profession: Officer in the United States Air Force

Fundraising Goal: $1,000

Race Goal: 4-4.5hrs

Why did you choose to run in support of U2FP? I saw another U2FP runner post an invitation on Instagram and thought it would be an amazing opportunity to run in support of a great cause. I also think that running with a team would make the experience much more fun.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? This would be my very first marathon. I am very excited for this challenge.

What do you crave after a long run? Watermelon and a banana/strawberry protein shake (and lots of electrolytes).

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? I listen to a variety of music, ranging from indie to hip hop to pagan folk genres.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? I am excited to be able to be part of one of the six world major marathons! I know this will definitely push me to test my limits. I have never run that far in one go and running alongside others who are also going to be pushing themselves is definitely motivational to say the least.

An interesting fact about yourself or anything else you’d like to share: I am an immigrant and moved to the States with my family when I was just a little girl. Since moving, I have been lucky enough to take advantage of the many opportunities, ranging from pursuing my tennis passions and becoming a top 30 junior in the country to graduating from the United States Air Force Academy- then having the privilege to lead the Air Force’s stellar Airmen as a commissioned officer. With this race in Chicago, I cannot wait to continue to give back to others and hope to inspire others in the process with my story as well.

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!