A MESSAGE FROM Lives will be changed.😊🎉
Oh, what a year late January back in 2011, in University a friend asked hey do you want to want a Half Marathon. I was like hmmm No. My mind could not bear to think about running 13.1 miles even though I was on the rowing team and played football in high school. However, the adventurous side of me and the "yes I can do anything I put my mind to" side started to think, and a few days later I signed up for my first half marathon. The Gasparilla Distance Classic in Tampa, Florida. Well, I can say it was not the training I fell in love with but that day I crossed the finish line was the day I said I am going to run forever.
It was in 2016, I ran a 15k for my dad because due to illness he had to remove his leg. That day I ran every mile for him because I was super grateful and blessed to have both my legs. That day forward and many miles later I always thought of him when I ran. Unfortunately, he passed in 2021. I know how ecstatic and proud he would have been to hear his daughter is going to run the NYC marathon.
Fast forward to many 5k's, 10k's 15's, and a few Half Marathons and 14milers, I never challenged myself beyond that. I always spoke about it and to be honest, running the NYC Marathon was a dream because all I knew was that you had to be an elite athlete. You had to compete with many people worldwide for a spot.
Well, it happened in March 2023, a few days after I landed in Guatemala, I was told I had the opportunity to be a part of this renowned global sporting event.
Well, of course, I cried. This was so unexpected and so out of the blue. Up to now I still can't believe it and no better way to run for charity and an amazing life-changing cause that will help many underprivileged people have better lives and opportunities in NYC. Running with purpose fuels my excitement and commitment to helping people. Also, I just like to help people in general.
It is going to be an exciting and difficult couple of months of training but I am ALL in to finish all 42km for this charity. A scripture I hold so dear to my heart
" I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4 -13
Below is some information about the charity, I am so honored to run for charity and help raise the funds so that people will be able to have a better life.
Project Renewal:
For more than 50 years Project Renewal has helped homeless New Yorkers renew their lives with health, homes, and jobs. They help empower individuals and families to rebuild their lives, find and stay in permanent homes, and return to stability and self-reliance. Each year they provide services to approximately 10,000 individuals and families in New York City.
For more information, visit their website: www.projectrenewal.org
Thank you so much for supporting my fundraising efforts for Project Renewal! You will be blessed. Stay tuned for updates and my journey to help this charity one mile at a time.
Much Love😊🎉
Nickola
