Name: Kaleigh Walsh

City: Batavia, IL

Fundraising Goal: $1,200

Race Goal: first marathon and just want to 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:

In August of 2018 my father was in a serious car accident where he broke his C6,C7, and C8 and bruised his spinal cord. The doctors said he would never walk again. It’s been a long time coming, but my father is learning to walk again! My father is the hardest working person I know and always has a positive outlook on life. He has been apart of research studies and made great connections with the doctors and physical therapists around him. I chose this charity to help raise awareness and help support more spinal cord injury studies! I am hoping more people like my father can share their story and motivate others!

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

First marathon

What do you crave after a long run?

Bagels and smoothies…yummy!

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

Electronic and rap music or a good audio book!

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

I am nervous as this is my first marathon, but I know through hard work and training anything is possible! I am excited to see how the whole race goes.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time I love spending time with my family and friends. I love to go hiking, take a yoga class, find new recipes, or read a good book.