Why I Run - My Daughter, My Friend, and My Health 

Scarlett
In my third trimester my doctor noticed an issue with our daughter's kidney. From that moment until now we have been working with urologists and nephrologists at Johns Hopkins to get Scarlett the care she needs to have two healthy kidneys. Scarlett was born with an ectopic duplicate ureter, severe vesicoureteral reflux, and hydronephrosis in her left kidney. She is at severe risk of kidney infection due to her anatomy and requires daily medication to prevent infections. On February 27th of this year, she underwent a major reconstruction surgery to reimplant both ureters on her left side in an effort to save her left kidney and improve her health. The surgery went well, and we will know more details about how successful it was after she continues to heal internally for the next few months. 

Scarlett's kindness, strength, and resilience inspire me every day. She is WAY more accustomed to hospitals, doctors’ offices, medications, and tests than any 2-year-old should be. I am beyond honored to model physical health for her and raise money for such an important organization. Being Scarlett's Mom is my biggest honor - I am very lucky. 

Michele
I also run to honor my friend who I affectionately call my sister, Michele. Michele was diagnosed with cancer which led to severe kidney disease. Against the odds, Michele's cancer is inactive but she continues to battle kidney disease. She has undergone 29 surgeries for her kidneys. Despite the numerous challenges she faces and the pain she endures Michele continues to show strength and resilience every day. Michele and her family have been family to me since the day I met them in 2012 and I am grateful for their love and support and proud to call Michele a sister! 

My Health
My running journey began in 2014 and I haven't stopped since. It has transformed my physical and mental health in ways I couldn't comprehend initially. Running has allowed me to maintain healthy kidneys and blood pressure to ensure I can keep up with my daughter for many years to come. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting this important cause and continuing to support Scarlett!
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Right now, 37 million American adults are living with kidney disease,1 in 3 people are at risk for kidney disease, and more than 1 in 7 people have it but aren’t aware.

I run to raise funds that support the National Kidney Foundation, who was the first to identify kidney disease as a distinct, treatable illness. They developed the staged system of kidney disease diagnosis and treatment – a worldwide standard today – and release and update treatment guidelines to improve patient care.

Join me in making these advances possible by donating to my efforts!

Thank you for your support!