Many of you know my story includes a deeply personal connection to Multiple Sclerosis. When I was 15, my father received a diagnosis that changed our lives forever. I vividly remember the day he fell for the first time – a moment etched in my memory. I couldn't have known then the profound impact MS would have on all of us.

My dad was a vibrant, active man, especially passionate about horses and the equestrian world. He was a strong physical presence, and watching his body betray him was incredibly difficult, not just for him, but for our entire family. He fought primary progressive MS for twelve years before complications from COVID led to his passing. Just five months after my son was born, I faced the heartbreaking loss of my father and found myself navigating the challenges of new motherhood.

In the wake of this loss, I also realized I needed to step away from the equestrian world, a part of my life deeply intertwined with my father's. I felt lost, unsure of how to move forward and struggling to find something I could achieve. My incredible husband, David, saw potential in me when I couldn't see it myself. He signed us up for a Tough Mudder 5k, a challenge I honestly didn't believe I was capable of completing. But David never let me give up and crossing that finish line was transformative.

That first race sparked something within me. I realized I was stronger than I thought, and the following year, we tackled the full 10-mile Tough Mudder. Running became a source of strength, until challenges with my husband's demanding job began to weigh heavily on our family. Anxiety took hold, and my physical fitness declined as I struggled with constant worry.

Finding solace, we turned to our faith and immersed ourselves in our local Catholic church and school, where our son started preschool. I was deeply moved by the peace and healing I found in reconnecting with my faith, especially after years of grappling with the pain of my father's illness. It reminded me of how truly blessed I am to have a healthy body and the ability to move.

Inspired to "practice what I preach," I set a goal to complete a run this year – a testament to the gift of health. I'm thrilled and honored to be running the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon in October for Marathon Mission! This faith-based organization beautifully combines faith and fitness, and when I discovered their mission, I knew I wanted to be involved. Having faith during difficult times isn't always easy, but it has consistently guided me toward the light.

Marathon Mission is a Detroit-based organization that supports numerous local charities. You can learn more about their incredible work here: [https://www.marathonmission.net/]. I would be so grateful for your support in helping me reach my fundraising goal to get to the starting line in October! Thank you for being a part of my journey.