Name : William Jones

City: Chelsea, AL

Profession: Senior Manager – Payments Business Operations - Daxko

Fundraising Goal: $2,000

Race Goal: 3:59 (sub four)

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:

When I was in second grade, I had what seemed like a minor bicycle accident. However, when I woke up the next day, I couldn’t feel anything from the waist down. I spent three months in the hospital without a clear diagnosis and sent home with no clear path to recovery. As a child, being unable to walk—or even imagine running—was terrifying. But I was determined. I began teaching myself to walk again through trial and error, facing countless falls and tears.

Every time I run, I remind myself how fortunate I am to be able to do so. Even during the darkest moments of my early morning runs—when it’s cold, dark, and lonely—I remember that running is a privilege, and I just need to keep going.

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

This will be my second marathon. Previously, I completed the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon with a time of 4:27. In addition, I have participated in two half marathons, three 10Ks, and several 5Ks.

What do you crave after a long run? Pizza, always pizza!

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? Depending on the length of my run, I either listen to podcast (long run) or a Punk Rock playlist (still holding onto 2000’s punk rock) for shorter runs.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? I am truly excited to represent an organization that resonates so deeply with me. Understanding firsthand how profoundly a spinal cord injury can affect someone, I am honored to contribute to this cause and support the invaluable research being done in this field.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love running. Training for my next race has become a passion of mine. When I am not training, there is nothing I would rather do than hang out with my wife Amanda, my daughter Lily, and our three dogs and two cats.