This February, I'm lacing up for my very first half marathon — the Walt Disney World Princess Half Marathon — and I'm running it for a cause that means the world to me: the Dragon Master Initiative.

Dragon Master Initiative was founded by a family who faced every parent's worst nightmare when their son, David, was diagnosed with a pediatric brain cancer called Glioblastoma Multiforme. Rather than let that loss be the end of the story, they turned it into a mission — to find and accelerate cures for cancer by building a community of collaboration and innovation among researchers, doctors, and families. Their work supports free, open-access data-sharing platforms that let scientists around the world compare notes and speed up discovery, while also walking alongside patients and families with real, immediate support during treatment.

Cancer has touched my family more than once, and someone close to me is fighting it right now. This run is for them, and for everyone still in the fight.

13.1 miles is nothing compared to what patients and families face every day. Every dollar raised helps fund research infrastructure, patient resources, and advocacy that brings us closer to a cure.

If you're able, I'd be so grateful for your support as I run. Thank you for being part of Team Fired Up!