Join Me in Supporting the Dragon Master Foundation: TEAM FIRED UP!

My best friend, Maria Lee Horan, has always been a source of inspiration and strength in my life. Her passion for making a difference has motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and engage with larger communities for meaningful causes. Through her, I was introduced to the Dragon Master Foundation and their incredible TEAM FIRED UP!

Hearing Maria speak about how this cause has touched her, her family, and their dear friend Mrs. Amanda, I knew I had to be a part of it. The work that the Dragon Master Foundation does is vital, and I am thrilled to join them in their mission to make a difference.

I am committed to fundraising for TEAM FIRED UP! and I need your support. Your generous contributions will go a long way in helping us achieve our goals and make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by this cause.

Please join me in supporting this incredible foundation by donating and spreading the word. Together, we can make a difference!

Here's my backstory  & running journey:

**A lot of people ask why I run, and usually, I respond with something funny or sarcastic. So here’s my actual “why.”**

I started running 9 years ago after joining the Air Force. Little baby A1C Carter thought everyone just ran and made it look so easy. I ran my first 5K at basic training, surrounded by a strong and diverse group of badass women. Running then became my go-to workout during Basic and AIT, and when I had leisure time.

Fast forward to 2017, I tackled my first Half Marathon in San Francisco while juggling college and a new job on base. My mom, my biggest cheerleader, walked my routes and cheered me on while I trained daily. Days after learning she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, I ran my first full marathon, with her still cheering for me at the finish line. Her strength and support were my biggest motivators, and still to this day are.

Through my mom’s treatments, my first SEL in AGE, an avid runner, pushed me to prioritize my mental & physical health. Running became my escape to clear my mind. Rain or shine. During my deployment last year, running in the Qatari heat with my team was what all the cool kids did, and I wanted to join the cool kids club. The leadership there inspired, supported, and challenged me to be my best. And become a Hoka girl lol

Shoutout to Gene, who ran more than 13.1 miles to pace me during our half marathon. And to Jess & Alycia, whose Valley Girls Run Club inspired me to set a goal for the 2024 2CM FULL MARATHON. It all started with a IG follow to the club and reaching out to Jess to make me a 10k playlist lol

Lastly, to my best friend, Angelica Dowell, your love and support over the last (almost) 10 years have been everything. I couldn’t imagine crossing the finish line without you by my side. Literally the definition of HYPE woman.

So, what’s next?  RUN WITH TEAM FIRED UP!