Name: Grace Boyle

Pronouns: she/her

City: Currently live in New York City (born and raised in Burlington, WI)

Profession: Digital Merchandising for Estee Lauder Companies

Fundraising Goal: $2,000!

Race Goal: 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:

Growing up in Wisconsin, I was in 4H and really enjoyed volunteering. As I have gotten older, I realized how important it is to give back to those around you and how it helps you learn and grow. Community building can be incredibly powerful and help you learn more about those that live in your backyard. I believe in U2FP’s mission to empower individuals with spinal cord injuries and advance research, and I am really excited to get to learn more about U2FP and how I can best get involved.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? I ran the NYC Marathon last Nov.

What do you crave after a long run? Chocolate Milk!

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? I listen to musical soundtracks (faves are Wicked, Hairspray, and The Last Five Years)

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? I am excited for the energy of race day, but I also love watching my body grow stronger during training. I am nervous for running in NYC summer heat again!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love going to comedy shows and Broadway shows when I can. I also am trying to get back into my reading era. And of course, running. Although it is more a love/hate relationship.