City: St. Paul, MN

Profession: Physical Therapist

Race: Marathon

Fundraising Goal: $1,000

Race Goal: 4 hours 22 mins (10 min miles) or better, or 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:

I choose to run in support of U2FP because of my profession and experience as a Physical Therapist. I have seen the trauma and the victories of working through both an abrupt spinal cord injury (SCI) and a longer term onset of one. I believe that anyone rehabbing a SCI is a true warrior! I run for them!

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed?

Due to prior injuries, it is my first full marathon.

• Twin Cities 10k- 2022
• Eau Claire Half Marathon – 2021 (for GO2 for Lung Cancer)
• Minnetonka Half Marathon – 2018
• Many 5ks from 2015-2021 - (for MN Adult & Teen Challenge, among others)

What do you crave after a long race?

Gatorade, fresh grapes, a big meal eventually :)

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what?

I actually listen to music around the tempo I want to run.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon?

I’m excited to finally do one and to support such a meaningful cause. I am nervous that prior injuries may creep up and slow me down or affect my training, but I am confident that the greater purpose will propel me to the finish!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Volunteering, hiking, photography, weight training, travel

Anything else you’d like to share?

It’s a pleasure to be on the team!