Hello,

Since I was a little kid, I have always struggled with learning disabilities. I was not only ashamed, but also embarrassed by these intellectual disabilities that I had. I have had to work really hard to overcome these obstacles by attending extra tutoring sessions and even staying after school on some days. Because of this, I have built resiliency and a determination that I never thought I had. 

To demonstrate my resilience, I took AP-level classes in high school and have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my entire academic career, despite my learning challenges. In addition to this, even though I have never been the biggest or most athletic soccer player, I worked really hard on my skills outside of practice and games, and ended up receiving an "All-State" award my senior year. On top of that, coming into one of the most prestiges universties in the country, I wasnt admitted into the business school, but knew that I wanted to get in after my freshman year. I worked on joining clubs, getting good grades, and writing great essays, and ended up getting into the Gies College of Business the second time around.

I say all of that to say that I have never given up on myself and my goals, but without the resources provided to me, none of my accomplishments would have come to fruition. This is my "why" for choosing to run in the Chicago Marathon through Special Children's Charities. Special Children's Charities focuses on providing students and athletes with developmental and intellectual disabilities with the resources that are needed to thrive. Special Children’s Charities aims to transcend boundaries and redefine possibilities by serving as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity within both the disability community and the City of Chicago.

I would really appreciate any donations to help me fulfill another goal of mine: to become a marathoner. 

If you wish to make a donation via check, please send to the address below, and they will credit the donation to my fundraising page. Please make sure to include my name in the memo section.

Please make all checks payable to Special Children's Charities.

Mail to: 
Special Children's Charities 
2 E. 8th St., Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605