City: Charleston (Daniel Island), SC

Profession: Engineer/Group Fitness Instructor

Fundraising Goal: $1,000

Race Goal: 3:50

In a few sentences, describe your connection to U2FP, why you chose to run in support of U2FP, and/or whether you have a personal connection to spinal cord injury and paralysis: I am thrilled to be running for such an incredible cause. The more awareness and money we can raise for the cause, the better. With pouring ourselves in, we can help advance the science and make the lives of those with spinal injuries and paralysis better.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? No! I've done the Charleston Marathon multiple times, as well as Greenville, SC, and the Santaclaus marathon in Florida.

What do you crave after a long run? French Fries! And usually a coffee :)

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? I like a mix of good upbeat music and podcasts. Anything distracting!

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? I'm most excited for the crowds! All of the marathons I've run have been on the smaller side. I have definitely hit that 18-22 mile slump and am looking forward to having a cheering crowd to keep me going.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Spend time with my family, run!!, teach group fitness classes, walk my english bulldog, and read.

Anything else you’d like to share? Just so excited to be part of the team.

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!