Mental health has shaped more of my life than most people probably realize and that’s exactly why I’m running the New York City Marathon in support of Minding Your Mind.

I first started my mental health journey in high school while navigating anxiety and challenges with peers. At the time, it felt unfamiliar and even a little uncomfortable, but it gave me tools I didn’t yet realize I needed. Since then, I’ve returned to therapy at different points in my life: during and after college, through big life changes and moves, and especially after the birth of my youngest daughter when I experienced postpartum depression.

Over the years, I’ve continued to take care of my mental health in different ways—through therapy, medication, and exercise… especially running. Each time, it has reinforced something I now deeply believe- that mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of it should be something we talk about openly and without hesitation.

That’s why I’m proud to be running in support of Minding Your Mind. Their mission to increase help-seeking behavior and move away from crisis-based responses really resonates with me. I believe that when we give young people the education and tools to understand their mental health, they’re better equipped to handle challenges as they come and not just when things reach a breaking point.

I’m running this marathon for myself- for the growth and strength I’ve gained along the way. I’m running for my daughters, so they grow up knowing it’s okay to ask for help. I’m running for my family members and friends who may struggle at times, even if they don’t always say it out loud. And I’m running in memory of a coworker who wasn’t able to see his worth the way the rest of us did.

Training for 26.2 miles is hard, but it’s nothing compared to what so many people deal with quietly every day. If sharing my story helps even one person feel less alone or more comfortable asking for help, it’s worth it.

I’m working to raise a minimum of $5,000, and every donation supports programs that bring mental health education to students and communities. It costs about $500 for Minding Your Mind to present one program, and $5,000 can bring ten programs to schools that otherwise wouldn’t have access. This kind of support really makes a difference, not just in reaching more students, but in continuing to build programs that will actually create a connection.

If you’re able, I would be incredibly grateful for your support—whether that’s a donation or simply sharing this page. (Sharing my page is a great way to spread awareness.)

Thank you for being part of something that means so much to me. 💚

Please visit Minding Your Mind to learn more about this important organization: https://mindingyourmind.org/