I am a senior at the University of Michigan planning to attend optometry school. I started running six years ago during COVID and discovered a talent for endurance. With my coach Shane Malaski, I trained for a half-marathon and then a marathon. Soon after, I set my sights on an Ironman with coach Jeff Devries, adding swimming, biking, and weightlifting to my routine. I then returned to my roots and trained for a 100-mile run. The first race took me 30 hours, and while it was a grueling experience that almost made me quit, I found the challenge exhilarating.

Four weeks later, I signed up for another 100-mile race, supported by an incredible crew who helped me through tough moments, like when I was hallucinating at mile 80. This second race in December 2024 was for Healing Transitions, a nonprofit focused on addiction recovery, and I raised $2500 for them. This journey has deepened my desire to give back, particularly to those experiencing homelessness, as I strive to use my determination to make a difference.