Hi friends! :)
To those of you who might be new here, my name is Michaela! I have recently teamed up with the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism to run 13.1 magical miles in January for the 2023 Walt Disney World Half Marathon!!
[Rewind to 2011-2015] When I was in high school, I "competitively" ran cross country and HATED every single second of it. When I graduated I vowed to never run distance again.
HOWEVER, over the last year, I decided that I wanted to start running again. I still DO NOT enjoy it but, I realize that “living life to the fullest” means both physical and mental betterment, well-being, and challenges.
"Live Life To The Fullest"
I realize that “living life to the fullest” is not just about me. It is a creed that reminds me that there are causes that are bigger than myself. Therefore, I wanted to couple my running with a foundation that mirrors my core beliefs.
So it is no coincidence that I have partnered with the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism whose motto is—you guessed it—“Live Life To The Fullest”. The Foundation’s promise is to “provide programs and activities that improve the quality of everyday life for people and families affected by autism along seven key dimensions that are critical to living each day fully. [They] aim to provide a path for education and/or employment during the day; opportunities for physical and social activity outside of work/school; and the tools to be safe, supported, and informed at all times”. Their vision is to create “a world where people with autism lead productive lives where they are included, respected, and actively engaged in their communities”.
I ask that you support my 13.1 mile run with any and all donations—no matter how large or small—going to the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism so that WE can be a part of something greater than us both.
Thank you SO much in advance!
--Michaela :)