City: Chicago, Illinois

Fundraising Goal: $2,500

Race Goal (time/just finish!): 4hr 15 minutes

In a few sentences, describe your connection to U2FP, why you chose to run in support of U2FP, and whether you have a personal connection to spinal cord injury and paralysis: My cousin Thomas (my brother from another mother) suffered a spinal cord injury 8 years ago. His recovery both personally and professionally has been nothing short of remarkable and that is due to the man that he is, his fantastic support network, and also great community-driven institutions like U2FP. Recovery from a spinal cord injury takes a village and that is why it is so critical we have institutions dedicated to not only support and advocacy but also to delivering a therapy to restore function to those with paralysis. I am excited to complete my first marathon alongside my cousin while he races in his second.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed? First marathon. Completed my first half marathon in 2019.

What do you crave after a long run? BEER

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what? Yes anything that keeps my mind off running :) Mostly tracks with a beat but if a rowdy bluegrass song comes on I'll run with that as well.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon? Excited to be in a large group of people again sharing a common goal. I'm most nervous about being in a large group of people that will have to watch as I try to drag myself across the finish line.

What is an interesting or unique fact about yourself (or anything else you’d like to share)? I usually run shorter races in full costume regardless of the time of year. In process of figuring out how to add a little flare to my race day to keep it entertaining for everyone.

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis is proud to once again be a charity partner for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2021! Help support U2FP’s initiatives to accelerate curative treatments for those living with Spinal Cord Injuries. Team U2FP members have raised over $140,000 in the past few years. Thank you for your support to advance research towards a cure for spinal cord injury!