I'm running the 2025 Bank of America Chicago to support Mission of Our Lady of the Angels!
2025 is the first year I’ll be running a marathon! I never considered myself a runner, when I started!
I didn't come from a family of athletes, the only marathon's we were watching were "telenovelas"/ Mexican soap operas, about girls being saved. I don't recall any runners in any of them. Maybe that's changed since I saw them last.
How did I end up running?
One day, I go to Jumping Bean our local coffee shop for my favorite chicken pesto sandwich. There was Jorge. He's from Pilsen and a local Chicago photographer, and he said, “You should come to this running group, it meets tonight. You’ll meet more people.” In my mind, I thought it was crazy. I don't run! I dreaded doing our mile pacer test in high school!
Yet, I had already sold myself on taking up challenges as they came! I worked up courage to go! I didn't know anyone other then Jorge! To my suprise I arrive and there are over 100 people! Wow! I felt so much energy and excitement being there! It was energy at first sight!
I had arrived to Venados Running Group, a group that started in 1981, before I was born! In the beginning they asked who was going to do 3 and who was doing 5 miles. Guess what I did? I ran 5, might as well take the challenge and crazy all the way! With my $20 pair of sneakers I began to move across the pavement, and slid and fell, shortly after. I was running last, but I was running and I was determined to finish that night! That was the beginning!
A decision is sometimes all you need to get started! It's thanks to supporters that you keep going! When I fell that evening two members of Venados waited for me. There were also many other runners leading along the path which made me feel so encourgaed! It was up to me to finish, but I was not doing this alone.
It means a lot to me to be running this marathon and I look forward to sharing this journey with you. I appreciate your support in donating for this charity that feeds over 4000 families every month.
We all fall, but it's organizations like OLA (Our Lady of Angels Mission) and especially your support today that allow others to do what they never thought they were capable of in the beggining!
May my story demonstrate that anyone—even a non-athlete—can transform their body and mind, by making a decision to show up and get up. A marathon is a milestone feat, and I thank you for your generosity and support by sharing this post!
Mission of Our Lady of the Angels exists to provide material and spiritual support to W. Humboldt Park, Chicago- one of the most challenged neighborhoods in the US. The Mission feeds about 4400 families a month, provides additional material and pastoral support to families, youth, and senior citizens, and, most importantly, brings the love of Christ to a neighborhood desperately in need of hope. More info about the Mission at www.missionola.com. Donate today to be part of the miracle that is TEAM OLA!
The Mission is a 501(c)(3) and relies entirely on the donations of private donors.
