At the age of 15 I was diagnosed with a rare auto immune disease, juvenile dermatomyosistis. I was told my life would be different and I wouldn't be able to have the same mobility in my body anymore. Also that not many people have been able to move passed certain stages of this disease (i.e. gaining proper mobility and normal skin). But with much chemotherapy and physical therapy, I was able to see progress with my health. Since then, I was able to graduate high school, dance in performances, play sports, and graduate college.

When I was diagnosed, I was told I couldn't play sports so doing this half marathon training would be a milestone in my life regarding my health. I started consistently running two years ago but could only do at most 1.5 miles. I wanted to find a race to motivate me and have a story to tell myself when I felt close to giving up. I found the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon in February that would take place in Disney World on November 6th, 2016. I signed up and told myself I would start training excessively to ensure I wouldn't let my health define me.

From the day I signed up I would diet and toning to lose the weight I found necessary to start training for the marathon. I was able to lose 20 lbs and I saw it as the right time to train. In September, I began excessively running 2-4 times a week (based on work and social schedule). I was able to increase my miles every week, I started with 3 miles on a regular run to 10 miles. The progress surprised me so much. I would have to talk to myself and say this is why I didn't need medication to keep me going.

With the marathon about to happen, all I can say is that it is possible. Use your past to be your motivation. I never thought I would be able to run 13.1 miles and see myself signing up for more for 2017.