This November, I will be participating in my very first marathon — the Philadelphia Marathon.

Running has been part of my story for many years, but the reasons behind why I run today are completely different from when I first started in my early twenties. Back then, I was lost in the ways of the world. I struggled with insecurity, people-pleasing, unhealthy priorities, and living without true purpose. I was consumed with body image, relying on things that could never truly fulfill me, and heading down a path that only led to darkness and destruction… but God.

I always knew of the Lord, but there is a profound difference between knowing about Him and truly living for Him.

In 2018, I became both a wife and a first-time mother. During that same season, my family endured heartbreaking challenges as substance abuse deeply affected one’s close to me. In the middle of that pain, all I knew to do was cling to Jesus and ask Him to guide me.

Now, seven years later, I look back and barely recognize the woman I once was. Jesus has completely transformed my life through His grace, mercy, and faithfulness.

I never imagined I would willingly sign up to run 26.2 miles. Years ago, I ran for all the wrong reasons. Today, I run for Jesus. I run because my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. I run because He has given me new life and renewed purpose. I run because others cannot. I run for my son, for my future family, I run for her, and ultimately, for His Kingdom.

As I prepare for this marathon, I also hope to raise support for three organizations that have deeply impacted my journey:

• Faces of Change

• The WOW Center

• Women at War 

Each of these ministries and organizations has been a light in my life, and all proceeds raised will be divided equally among them.

I would be incredibly grateful for your prayers and support as I take on this challenge and seek to advance the Kingdom of Heaven through it.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”

— Hebrews 12:1–2