Tell your donors who you are and why you are running!
Hello, my name in Sarah Aili Hay-Smith and I grew up with a learning disability called non-verble learning disability. I cannot drive, because this affects spacial awareness. I have worked harder to overcome and achieve my goals. After I graduated high school, I attended the Threshold Program at Lesley University. This is a two year program for people with learning disabilities. I learned how to advocate for myself with getting the support I need.
I have been living in Boston since 2011, and I have gained confidence in who I am. I grew in more ways than one, the biggest I moved cross country for college! I grew up and matured into th independent women I am today.
I hope I can inspire people with learning disabilities to never stop pushing and achieving goals and dreams. One of the biggest dreams I achieved, was running the Boston Marathon! I ran the Boston Marathon in 2019 for Dana Farber. I was raising funds for innovative cancer research. I lost my dad to cancer in 2017, life changed in front of my eyes. I was determed to put my sadness and make a powerful memory. My dad was my inspiration and the reason I pushed through and kept running,when the going gets tough you keep pushing. That was one my the most impactful e peri experiences, I learned so much just being able to share my journey.
Running is something that's always been there helping me become my best self. Running has helped me push, and train for half marathons. Running has given me friendships, purpose, strength and stamina to my life. Now, I feel very lucky to be given the opportunity to run the New York City Marathon for the Doug Flutie Autism team. I know first hand how challenging it can be to have a disability. I have had to overcome adversity and obstacles. Through all of my obstacles, I have learned I cannot change who I am. This is me take me and all of me for who I am with my whole heart.