Chicago will be my third marathon (Boston 2022 and London 2024) and I am so excited to run in support of an amazing cause. I was drawn to the mission of TAOS because I am both personally and professionally committed to supporting trauma survivors and advocating in different ways to bring awareness, support, and resources to these causes. I see the impact of trauma on a daily basis as a clinical psychologist and am continually amazed by the resilience and perseverance of my patients. I truly feel fortunate and honored to be a part of their recovery journeys. As a female athlete, these issues hit even closer to home. We all deserve to feel safe in our bodies, spaces, sports, and communities. I am enthusiastic to fundraise for such an amazing cause.

More personally, running has become a central part of my life over the past four years and to say it has been life changing is an understatement. Achieving a goal after enduring through training in all weather conditions and in the context of working full time and raising two kids has taught me physical and mental toughness that has translated to my broader life and challenges I may encounter. I love being able to set an example for my children to show them the importance of having a healthy body and mind, perseverance, and working towards a goal. Prior to my own marathon adventures, cheering along the Boston Marathon has always been one of my favorite days. I love the camaraderie, emotions, and bearing witness to people from all walks of life all completing the same race as a united mass. I cannot wait to be a part of the 2025 Chicago Marathon!