Hello Friends!
Many of you have followed my running journey for more than 15 years. After being introduced to Disney races I have never looked back. So of course when it came time to run my first marathon I instantly went to Disney! They say after your first marathon you either love it or you hate it... well, here I am so I guess you know which one I was. Before I returned home I was already plotting how to train better, push through, and had new goals in mind.
Sadly, and for the first time ever, when registration came for the 2027 marathon I was locked out. I had never had that before! I was heartbroken because I had been working hard to improve my time and qualify for a higher corral placement at the marathon through participating in certified races, and I was exactly where I needed to be. This was a big goal for me for the reasons above, but also because I hit a milestone birthday this year - FIFTY! Could I run a marathon at FIFTY?!?
As I worked through the disappointment I realized that it was probably fitting to look for a charity since my first ever Disney run was also done through a charity. But it was also extremely important to me that I select an organization that I was comfortable supporting and asking for others to support as well. When I heard that Girls on the Run was opening up some bibs I was thrilled because I had already been looking into their organization to become a local volunteer. I work with youth at our church and our conversations as they enter jr. high sports have helped us to connect. "Mrs. Lisa, I ran 2 miles in PE Today! How many did you run?" is a frequent conversation starter for some of "my girls." I realized the power of athletics to reach girls and inspire them in the same ways running has inspired me. I could write a book about it all, and maybe this is long enough it feels like a preamble (lol), but my heart is in it to encourage girls to push themselves, believe in themselves, and be physically, emotionally, and mentally strong through sport.
That first race weekend, I injured myself 2 months out. The people who had donated and followed along became my team. Encouraging texts, phone calls, and posts (yes, even at 4am EST they were reaching out on race day!) They got me through those races and we all celebrated that finish line together. This year, for the first time, I am running solo, so I am asking not only for your donation, but to become part of my "chEAR squad" It means more than anyone realizes to get that encouragement when it matters most.
Please know that your donation goes directly to the organization. It does not pay my entry fees, travel, or other expenses. 100% of your giving goes to Girls on the Run.
Help get this "old lady" to the starting line in 2027 by donating today! The sooner I reach my goal the sooner am "officially" registered with Disney and can submit those proofs of time!! Thank you!
