Every runner has a "why," and for my very first marathon, my reason is the strongest and most defining force in my life: my mom, Sharla.

I signed up for the Honolulu Marathon on her birthday, stepping onto this path to carry her fierce, unbreakable spirit forward. My mom was a warrior in every sense of the word. Diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in June of 2016, she fought an incredible battle with unwavering grace, courage, and faith. Even as she faced down the hardest challenges, she never stopped being an encourager for everyone else in their own fights. Though cancer ultimately took her body on March 1, 2019, it never touched her indomitable spirit, her deep devotion to her faith, or her endless love for her family.

As an educator, a passionate supporter of my brother's and my life, a lover of the outdoors, and a beacon of strength to all who knew her, she poured everything she had into lifting others up. Now, I am lacing up my running shoes to honor her memory, celebrate her life, and fight back against the disease that took her too soon.

I am proud to be fundraising for Susan G. Komen to support critical research, patient care, and advocacy, ensuring that fewer families have to experience the heartbreak of losing someone they love. Every mile I train for and every step I take across that finish line in Hawaii is dedicated to her. Please consider supporting my campaign and helping me carry on my mom's legacy of hope and resilience. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.