Running has transformed my life, and this year, I am taking on my biggest challenge yet—the NYC Marathon on November 2nd. I am honored to be running for Queens Centers for Progress (QCP), an incredible organization that supports children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD). Every step I take will be for them—to raise awareness, funds, and hope. My journey with running began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. At first, I could only manage short distances, but I quickly fell in love with the sport. In 2021, I made the life-changing decision to prioritize my health. With the help of tools and resources, I lost over 115 pounds and have maintained that transformation ever since. As my body grew stronger, so did my ambition. In 2023, I set a goal to complete my first 10-mile race in Newport, RI. It was tough, but I pushed through, crossing the finish line in tears of joy. That moment ignited a passion for distance running, and since then, I have completed five half marathons, four 10-mile races, and numerous 10Ks and 5Ks. I have always admired marathoners, never believing I could be one myself. If you had asked me five years ago whether I would ever run 26.2 miles, I would have laughed. But I have learned that with determination, discipline, and the right cause to fight for, anything is possible. This year, I committed to making that dream a reality, and I am deeply grateful to have been chosen by QCP to run on behalf of individuals with ID/DD. This cause is personal to me—I have family and friends who have been directly impacted, and I want to use this opportunity to support them and others like them. QCP is doing truly life-changing work, serving over 1,500 individuals of all ages by providing educational support, job training, housing, and community involvement opportunities. Their programs empower individuals with ID/DD to live more independent and fulfilling lives, and I am beyond honored to represent TeamQCP in the TCS NYC Marathon. Every dollar raised will help QCP continue their mission and expand their reach. This race is about more than just running; it’s about making a difference. I invite you to support this cause—every donation, big or small, will help improve lives. Thank you for believing in me, in QCP, and in the incredible individuals we are running for. Follow along this year—it’s going to be EPIC!