This year, I’m running my first 5K in loving memory of my dad, Ted Adderly, Sr..

If you knew him, you probably remember his laugh...the way he would throw his head back and laugh so hard his eyes would disappear. He loved big. He loved helping people (which made him such a natural as a real estate agent), and he never met a stranger. Fishing, golf, gumbo, crawfish, and anything that reminded him of his beautiful home in the Bahamas brought him joy, but nothing brought him more happiness than his family. My brother, our kids, and I were his absolute greatest treasures.

Losing him has changed me in ways I’m still learning to understand. I am so deeply grateful for the love, support, and grace that have carried me through this grief journey. No one should have to walk through loss alone.

That’s why I’m participating in the Our House Grief Support Center 5K. Our House is a completely non-profit organization dedicated to providing grief support to children, teens, and adults by creating safe spaces where people can heal, connect, and feel understood.

If you feel moved to donate, I would be so thankful. Every contribution helps families navigating loss find the support they deserve. And every step I take on race day is in honor of my dad, his laugh, his love, and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.

Thank you for loving him. Thank you for supporting me. And thank you for helping turn grief into something that gives back.