City: Chicago, IL

Profession: Entrepreneur and Environmental Engineer

Fundraising Goal: $1125

Race Goal: sub 4:00

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: Three days before my sixth birthday, my dad was in a car accident and was paralyzed from the waist down. From that moment on, my life changed, and I witnessed the pain and extraordinary challenges that paralysis can inflict. I spent years following any research that might possibly lead to a cure for my dad. Through every challenge, my dad has remained positive and been an amazing husband, father, and inspiration to my family and me. I’m running for my dad and to support U2FP and spinal research in the hope that soon spinal cord injuries can be treated and healed.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? I’ve been an athlete all my life and played collegiate soccer, but this is my first marathon and first race. I plan to find races sometime this summer but haven’t registered for anything yet.

What do you crave after a long run? Immediately after a long run, I’m usually craving something refreshing like a juicy orange or pomegranate.

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? When I’m training or running, I’m usually listening to music and my music preference is usually contemporary country. It allows me to clear my mind and relax so I can focus on my pacing, breathing, and form.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? I’ve watched the last 2 Chicago Marathons as a spectator. The energy and support from spectators are unreal here in Chicago, and I’m pumped to be on the other side of things.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? In my free time, I’m an outdoors adventure kind of guy! From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to biking, kayaking and backpacking in the summer, I usually have some adventure in my plans. I’ve visited 15 national parks so far, including a weeklong backpacking trip through Denali National Park in Alaska. Otherwise, you can find me after work at my favorite breweries in Chicago, or biking and walking along the beaches of Lake Michigan.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Thank you to everyone who donates! Together we can find a cure for spinal cord injuries.