Hello everyone! This year, I will be running in the Gary Bjorkland half-marathon as a part of Grandma's Marathon in June. I have lived in Duluth for about three years by Grandma's marathon, and every year I am inspired by the runners I see go through this great city! This year I have decided to turn that inspiration into action and run one of the races. Along with my goal to complete this half marathon, I will be partnering with Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota to raise money for the children!

There are a few things you may not know about Children’s. It’s one of the largest pediatric health systems in the country and the only system in Minnesota to provide care just to kids. Last year, Children’s treated more than 130,000 kids in the five-state region. As a nonprofit organization, Children’s relies on philanthropy. Nearly everything at Children’s is impacted by generosity, from its live in-house television programming Star Studio, to Child Life, to the Ronald McDonald House, to its private rooms to cutting-edge technology and research.

The next several months won’t be easy. I have hundreds of miles ahead of me before I reach the start line. There will be days when I don’t want to lace up my shoes. There will be days when I prefer sleeping in over doing my long run. Then, I’ll remember why I’m doing this.

I’m running for kids. I’m running so they receive the best care. I’m running to support tomorrows. I’m running so no child is turned away, regardless of ability to pay.

I hope you will consider supporting me. Because when you help me, you ultimately help kids.