In 2022, I was diagnosed with sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease that severely affected my mobility, something I had always taken for granted. Prior to my diagnosis I had never even heard of the disease, let alone knew how to pronounce it. What followed was a year of crippling anxiety, pain, steroid treatments and countless infusions. Eventually, I regained the ability to walk without pain. Walking slowly turned into running and in 2025, I completed my first full marathon. Sarcoidosis unexpectedly introduced me to the very thing that would restore not only my body, but also my sense of freedom, confidence, and possibility.

Now, I have the honor of running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon with Team FSR in support of the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research. NYC has always been a dream race, and being able to run it for a cause so closely connected to my own story makes every mile even more meaningful.

I run for the people awake at 2 a.m. googling symptoms and searching for answers. I run for those navigating chronic illness, uncertain diagnoses, and bodies that no longer feel familiar. Most importantly, I run to remind people that they belong in this sport, regardless of their background, pace, story, or limitations. Running is for every BODY.

I hope you will consider supporting Team Rally for Sarc this year by making a financial contribution to my page as I seek to support FSR and all those impacted by sarcoidosis. Your donation, of any amount, will not only help Team Rally for Sarc achieve their goals, but will help make more patient support, and one day, a cure for sarcoidosis possible. 

Thank you! 

Click here for more information on sarcoidosis and the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research.

Philile