My fitness journey started at The Phoenix back in 2023 with CrossFit and rock climbing, and a bit of running on the side. That side hobby has, uh, gotten away from me. I've since racked up a long list of races and obstacle courses, and my distances now range from 5K all the way up to 52 miles. The NYC Marathon sits somewhere in the middle of that range, but it's still a big one for me. Not because of the miles, but because of who's getting to run them.
Athleticism and fitness have been one of the biggest factors in my recovery, and I owe a lot of that to The Phoenix. The community, the inclusive classes, the constant push to help people become the best version of themselves. That mix gave me a home to live a fit, healthy life inside of. I walked in needing all of that, and I'm still here because it's still true.
Running this marathon isn't just about doing it. It's about the fact that I can. That's something recovery and this community gave back to me, and it's not lost on me for a second.
I'm running for Team Phoenix to help raise $3,500 to keep these programs free for anyone with 48 hours or more of sobriety.
Your donation helps fund:
- Free fitness classes, hikes, climbing, and group workouts for people in recovery
- A community that meets you where you are and helps you build from there
- Programs that turn fitness into a real foundation for a new life, not just a hobby
Whether you can give $10, $25, or $100, every dollar helps put more people in the position I'm in right now. Grateful, healthy, and at a starting line.
Together, we rise.
