Running has never been part of my identity. In fact, until recently, I never thought of myself as someone who could set a fitness goal, let alone run a half marathon. But that all changed when I took a leap of faith and signed up for the 2024 Disney Half Marathon. What started as a “whim” has turned into something so much more, not only did I finish that race, but running has become a personal journey that’s transformed my relationship with my body, health, and confidence.
It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle of daily life. Between caring for my two young daughters and juggling family, I found it difficult to prioritize myself. After having my first child I struggled with feeling comfortable in my own skin and knew I had to make a change, but didn’t know where to start. That’s when running entered my life and soon discovered that running was about more than just fitness. It became a way for me to reconnect with my body, clear my mind, and gain a sense of accomplishment I had never experienced before.
One of the highlights of my running journey so far was the 2024 NYC United Airlines Half Marathon. Running through the streets of New York City, the city that raised me, was beyond words. There’s something so special about experiencing the pulse of the city, feeling the energy of the crowd, and seeing landmarks that have shaped who I am. It was a full-circle moment.
As I started exploring the charity partners for the United Airlines Half Marathon 2025, one organization stood out: Tell Every Amazing Lady®. The work Tell Every Amazing Lady® does to raise awareness for ovarian cancer and to educate women about the importance of listening to their bodies resonated deeply with me. Many of us get so caught up in the demands of life that we forget to check in with ourselves, and by the time we realize something’s wrong, it can be too late.
While I don’t have a personal connection to ovarian cancer, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact cancer has on a family. My own family has been touched by this disease, and I know the toll it takes on everyone involved. The emotional, physical, and mental strain is immeasurable. That’s why I’m so honored to be part of TEAL’s mission to spread awareness and empower women to advocate for their health. Supporting this cause through my running journey feels like the perfect way to give back and use my new passion to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can help make a difference.
To donate to Stephanie, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s 2025 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon Fundraising Page. You can also access Stephanie’s fundraising page directly. To apply for a future marathon, or to learn more, please visit Team Tell Every Amazing Lady®’s half marathon page today.
