Hi, as I turn 29 this year, I just want to say how grateful I am to be here. For the past 7 years, I have struggled with anxiety and depression. There were so many moments where the world felt so big and I felt incredibly small. Two years ago, I started running at a 12 minute pace. At first, it honestly felt like a hobby I hated, but I kept showing up for myself anyway. Somewhere along the way, running became so much more than exercise. As someone whose mind was constantly overthinking 24/7, running gave me moments of silence. Moments where my brain could finally rest. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I was doing something completely for myself, and it did not matter how fast or slow I was going. Running reminded me that even when I felt stuck mentally, I was still capable of moving forward. That is why, at 29 years old, I have decided to run my very first half marathon. Not because I am the fastest runner, but because every mile represents choosing myself, my mental health, and my healing over and over again. As a Latina woman, mental health is something deeply personal to me. Approximately 22.4% of Latine adults in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders, and Latina women experience disproportionately higher rates of anxiety and depression. Despite this, so many people in our community still struggle in silence because of stigma, lack of resources, or fear of asking for help. That is why I am also raising money for Mental Health America of Greater Houston. Their mission is to empower the community through mental health education, advocacy, and connection to care for those who need it most. If you are able to donate, share, or support in any way, it would mean so much to me. Mental health matters, and everyone deserves access to support, healing, and hope.