City: Raleigh, NC

Profession: Physical Therapist

Fundraising Goal: $1,000

Race Goal: 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:

5 ½ years ago (6 this August), my nephew Max sustained a SCI after diving into a pool and hitting his head/neck onto the bottom. Being a PT, I spent a few weeks with him during his initial rehab and Shirley Ryan, and then out in Nebraska at QLI. I immediately learned as much as I could from co-workers and classes to help both him and his family with as many resources as possible and have been looking for new research that can help him, as well as other people with SCI. I have attended two U2FP symposiums with my sister and Max and have enjoyed listening and learning each time. I am hopeful there are new therapies out there that can help improve quality of life for people with this type of injury, and especially for my nephew.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? No – I have completed the Richmond Marathon and several ½ marathons in the past.

What do you crave after a long race? Food – probably Gluten free pizza or cookies

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? I signed up for the Nike Run app and have enjoyed the coaching, but in the background I do listen to Ed Sheeran, Rhianna, or the Indigo Girls – or a playlist on Spotify called “Everybody Dance Now.”

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? To do this with my sister and spend time in Chicago with her!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I like to exercise, go paddle boarding or kayaking, walking with friends, spending time with my sister, binge watching a variety of shows.

Anything else you’d like to share? Just looking forward to being able to participate!