Pronouns: he/him
City: Eden Prairie, MN
Profession: Activity-Based Exercise Specialist at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (community-based physical therapy working with people with neurological injuries)
Fundraising Goal: $2,000
Race: Marathon
Race Goal: around 4:00, but also just 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:
I’m excited to join this team since I’ve been working with people with Spinal Cord injuries for the last four years. The progress, determination and resilience I’ve seen in my clients is inspiring, and I’m happy to endure a marathon to help fundraise for future treatments and solutions to improve outcomes for this population.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed?
Last year I ran on team U2FP in the 10-mile race. I’m feeling pretty confident that I can extend my effort to a marathon, and this would be my first!

What do you crave after a long run?
Ice Water.

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what?
90s and 2000s pop, rock and any nostalgic music for me. A good beat can push my tempo for a bit!

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon?
I’m excited for race day, but I’m a little nervous about all the preparation and making sure I’m in my best shape to succeed on the big day.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy board games, video games and spending time with my family, especially my nieces and nephews. I'm also a dog dad and love my snuggles with Kino, the shihpoo.