I'm so excited to be running my first marathon in honor of my amazing son. Blake was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder last year. Since then, we've been fighting hard to get him access to resources to help him thrive. We've had significant challenges trying to get appropriate support at school and beyond. We are learning how important it is to advocate for him!

Blake is way more than a diagnosis. To know Blake is to love him – he is pure sunshine. Blake adores his younger brother AJ, who looks up to him. They are best friends and really look out for each other. Blake loves animals (and finally got a dog last year, after lots of pleading!), music, roller coasters, playgrounds, the beach, and water parks. He is fun, energetic, and enthusiastic. 

As part of this running team, I'm fundraising for Autism Speaks, which is dedicated to promoting solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder.

Providing support for kids with autism and raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder is something that means a lot to me. Thank you for believing in me and Blake!