I'm raising funds for the Boston Bulldogs Running Club, a charity dedicated to supporting those affected by addiction and mental health issues through running and community.

I never thought I would run in the Boston Marathon. It is a gift and a privilege to be able to participate! That said, I feel like I have a responsibility to give back to the Boston community since it provides a space for me to fulfill a lifelong dream.

I chose to run with the Boston Bulldogs because their work hits very close to home. Having grown up in a household with parents who struggled with addiction, my brother and I were exposed to chaos, uncertainty, emotional and physical neglect, instability, arguments, marital problems, and more.

In my early twenties, I struggled with my own use of drugs and alcohol to cope with depression and anxiety — much of which I've learned stemmed from my upbringing. In 2018, I finally had the resources to work with a therapist who eventually suggested trying to incorporate running into my routine if possible. I committed to trying to run one mile and was SO TIRED, but from there, I continued to gradually up my mileage until I ran my first 5k! I was so proud. I quickly realized why my therapist made such a suggestion! Running became a positive resource to help with depression and anxiety — alongside the work we were doing in therapy sessions, of course. Today, I am 5+ years substance free and have been running ever since that first mile :)

Boston Bulldogs Running Club exemplifies the power of running and healing through its capacity to create a space where folks impacted by addiction can come together, form community and lean on one another while making a positive impact on the body and mind.

Your donation will help provide resources, support groups, and training programs to individuals in need.