I’ve been running since 2012, but it wasn’t until recently that it became more for me than a hobby. Last year I ran two 5Ks and a half marathon. I was running to cope (hello Saturn return). This November I’m running the New York City Marathon. Ten years ago this city is where I first launched into the “real world”, taking a chance on myself and my life. At the time, I worked in an industry that placed limitations on how I looked, how I expressed myself and how I moved my body. I was even told to stop running because it “made my legs look big.” Now, a decade later, I get to run 26.2 miles through the same city with full ownership over my body. It will be New York City’s 50th marathon anniversary, and Point of Prides 10th! Earlier this year, I had gender-affirming surgery. It changed my life and has enabled me to feel more at home with myself. I’m running in support of Point of Pride, an organization that helps trans people access life saving, gender affirming care when it would otherwise be out of reach. Having received that care myself, fundraising to extend it to others feels like the most natural thing I could do. For the past three years I’ve volunteered and worked for a queer Helpline, answering calls for queer people in need of housing, healthcare and emotional support. Running this marathon and fundraising for this community feels like an extension of that work. If you’re able, I would be so grateful for your support. I’ve already secured a bib in the marathon, so I do not benefit. Everything goes directly towards queer people accessing the care they deserve/cannot afford. Which is important now more than ever as current legislation tries to strip us of our rights and access to healthcare. My goal is to raise $4,000, and every contribution has direct impact. Thank you for considering and thank you for showing up for the community 🏳️‍🌈 🩵🏃🏽‍♀️