Favorite TNT memory: the nike preview, walking/limping/running with Mama Lisa and my Mentor Elizabeth. We took a short cut and ended up on the Great Highway with no sidewalk. I was in total pain and didn't want to go on. They literally carried my spirit to the end of the 20 miles. I got the end and saw all my friends and coaches waiting for me, my mom too. I will never forget how I felt (so loved) and supported. I was the last person in and no one was mad at me for taking so long, they were proud. My Mentor Elizabeth is one of my best friends two years later!

Best fundraising tip: DON'T stop asking!!!!!

Do you have an honoree story to share? This last Nike, I was an early start due to illness. As I was walking this couple in front of me had a photo on their back of a 19 year old girl who had passed of Lymphoma. I asked them about her. It was their daughter. This couple wasn't in the best shape, but they were doing the full in honor of their daughter. They must have been in their 50s, about my mom and dads ages. I was amazed. I would see them off and on throughout the run. And at one point they both looked like they were in pain. But they wouldn't give up for their daughter.

Favorite fuel (pre-, during & post-workout): post marathon I am always craving a burger!!!! (I don't even eat beef that often). Post workout is breakfast for me egg whites and oatmeal with cinnamon and sometimes a third of a banana, pre runs I love a bagel with pb and honey!

Favorite run gear: My running belt of course!!!! O and non cotton clothing!!!!!

Life/Sport Philosophy: Running "run ugly"m life: "just keep swimming"

When I'm not running, I'm working! I work a lot! Or I am at the gym, with my boyfriend and his two kids, or hanging out with my family!

Other Interesting Facts: I drive a red mini cooper that suits my personality perfectly, I am a small business owner, I work with children and adults who have Autism, I have French Bulldog (Napoleon) and he's the cutest dog EVER ;)

Motivational song and/or quote:

"This too shall pass"

"Cancer sucks more"

Why you love Winter season! I heart winter season because I look that much more crazy and insane to my friends and family! ;) AND we have a GREAT time, FABULOUS staff, and AWESOME participants!!!!

Since Team In Training’s inception in 1988, more than 360,000 participants have raised over $850 million to support the Society’s research and patient services programs. Last year TNT raised $18.5 million dollars through The Nike Women’s Marathon.

Everyone participates in honor of a patient, which provides a strong motivation to succeed.