City: St Paul
Profession: Corporate communications and public relations for medical technology (Founder of Scope Strategic Communications – www.scopestrategic.com)
Fundraising Goal: $2,000
Race: 10 Mile
Race Goal: 01:40:00
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:
Matthew Rodreick, the executive director of United to Fight Paralysis, has become a friend of mine over the past two years. We met through a mutual friend who plays in the same band as Matthew—Zoë Says Go! Since becoming friends, Matthew and I have had many conversations about the U2FP—its mission, accomplishments, challenges and aspirations. I’m happy to support the organization Matthew founded (after his son Gabriel suffered a spinal cord injury while surfing off the coast of Costa Rica) and am counting on you to do the same by making a financial contribution on my behalf.
Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed?
I’ve completed many running races, including two marathons—Chicago and Grandma’s (in Duluth)—and several installments of the Fitch Mountain Foot Race, an annual 10k in Healdsburg, California (with my two sons, who grew up there) on Father’s Day.
What do you crave after a long run?
After a long run, I crave cold water, a banana and a donut—that and the revelry and bonhomie around the finish line.
Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what?
While running, I usually listen to rock, pop and indie music like The Who, Halsey and Cage the Elephant.
What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon?
I’m most excited about being part of the Twin Cities Marathon for the first time and running the 10-mile race in under 100 minutes.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In addition to running, I enjoy playing piano, learning Spanish, listening to music (live and recorded), storytelling and traveling with friends and family.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I admire Matthew for taking the risk of starting U2FP and turning the organization into a strong voice for people with spinal cord injury.