In November, I ran my first marathon, and it completely changed my life. As a lifelong competitive swimmer, I spent years in the water and never expected running to become such an important part of who I am. Running has given me confidence, joy, and a sense of purpose I didn’t know I was missing. The New York City Marathon has always been my dream race, and I still can’t believe I get to run it, but with a purpose far greater than myself.
Mental Health Crisis in the Classroom
For six years, I worked as a Title I elementary school teacher in Arizona, where I saw firsthand how many students came to school carrying heavy emotions and trauma without the tools to understand or express them. At times, nearly 800 students shared access to only two counselors, far from enough to meet their needs. School is not just about reading and math. It is where children learn how to process emotions, build relationships, connect with others, and navigate life. Youth mental health is a growing crisis. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people and something we cannot ignore.
Why Minding Your Mind
Minding Your Mind’s mission is to end the stigma and destructive behaviors often associated with mental health challenges by providing evidence based education to K through college students and the adults in their lives. They bring programs to schools and communities to help normalize conversations around mental health at a young age, working to break stigma and change outcomes. My goal is to raise money to help provide young people with the resources and support they deserve and to help them ask for help without shame. Your donation can change and save lives.
Why I Run
I am running this marathon in honor of Alex and for anyone who has ever felt like they did not belong or were not enough. I carry him with me, along with the hope that more young people will feel safe asking for help and know they are never alone. Our world needs you here.
Thank you for supporting me on this journey. 💙
