Name: Thomas Cloyd

Pronouns: He/Him

City: Oakland, CA

Profession: Digital Healthcare Strategy

Fundraising Goal: $1,500

Race Goal: Sub 5 hours

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’m pushing for Team U2FP because the world needs an intervention to restore function for people with paralysis. U2FP has proven that it is the best organization to make that happen. I have a C-5 spinal cord injury, and it sucks. I know a lot of people who are paralyzed, and it makes their lives, and sometimes the lives of those around them, a lot more damn difficult. People with paralysis are able to do quite a bit, but GD, individual lives and society would be dramatically improved if we could restore function. And U2FP is the best organization to make that a reality. So, I want to do everything I can to support them and thus, the delivery of an intervention to restore function.

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

I have completed the Chicago Marathon 3 times

What do you crave after a long run?

A Grilled Stuffed Burrito from Taco Bell - unfortunately that magical item was retired many years ago.

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

Definitely. Subpar space opera sci-fi books.

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

I am always most nervous about managing my bladder. I need assistance going to the bathroom in my Rugby chair, and managing those logistics plus the time it takes to use the bathroom are huge challenges whenever I do a longer race.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Pretty standard/boring response – traveling, going for long pushes in new places, making people laugh, going to see bad action movies in the movie theater.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I am deeply grateful to my family and friends for all they have done, and continue to do, to support me and the SCI community. Without their time and efforts I would not be living the full life I am today. It is my mission to pay their compassion forward. Thanks to you all.