Hi, my name is Nikko, and this July I’ll be running the San Francisco Ultra Marathon — a 52.4-mile race that begins Saturday night and continues into Sunday afternoon, truly pushing the limits of endurance. But this year, I’m not just running for myself. I’ve decided to dedicate this race to a cause that means a great deal to me: raising awareness and support for the autism community through Autism Speaks.

Autism Speaks is an organization committed to promoting solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. From advocacy and support to research and education, their mission is to create a more inclusive and understanding world — and that’s something I want to be part of.

This cause is especially meaningful to me because my younger brother is autistic. He’s one of the kindest and smartest people I know, and I’ve had the privilege of watching him grow, overcome challenges, and shine in his own unique way. His journey has taught me so much about patience, empathy, and the importance of support systems.

That’s why I’m combining two things I care deeply about — running and advocating for my brother — into this fundraiser. Running an ultra marathon is no small task. It takes hours of training, mental toughness, and a lot of heart. But compared to the challenges many individuals and families affected by autism face every day, it’s a small effort.

With every mile I run, I’ll be thinking of my brother and others like him who deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. My hope is that this fundraiser not only raises money for valuable programs and research, but also spreads awareness and encourages compassion and understanding.

Your donation, no matter the amount, will go toward funding critical research, resources, and programs through Autism Speaks. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you!