As an ultrarunner, I’ve raced distances ranging from 5k to 100 miles, but I've told everyone I know that I would never run 200 miles. So, you might be wondering what has changed? Well, this year I'll be running to raise funds for a cause I truly believe in that desperately needs our help. I figure that I had better do something hard if I'm going to ask for your support!

Free to Run is a non-profit organization that aims to empower women and girls in regions of conflict through adventure sports and access to the outdoors. The goal is to help these women to become leaders and a force for positive change in their own communities. Among their participants are activists, Fulbright scholars, TEDx speakers and more. Right now, they are facing unparalleled challenges given the situation in Afghanistan and the organization, and its members, are fighting to stay alive. Free to Run is mainly funded through its Afghanistan program and many countries are freezing aid at this time. Funds are urgently needed to protect/relocate their staff and members on the ground as well as to ensure that Free to Run can continue its critical mission in areas of conflict for years to come. 

When things get tough, many ultrarunners fall back on the mantra of, "Sure, it's hard but I get to do this." I've been extremely privileged in my life that I've always had access to sports and the outdoors. The mountains are my happy place and where I feel like the strongest version of myself. It wasn't always like that, though, and I can remember when "the great outdoors" really intimidated me, especially as a woman alone. My first solo, backcountry trail run still lives in my memory as one of the most defining days of my life. I felt so empowered. I truly believe that my time spent adventuring makes me a stronger human, a better partner, and a better leader.

All women should have that same access and opportunity, that same sense of empowerment. I am, quite literally, free to run and so I will. I get to run 200 miles so other women can run, too. Whatever you can spare will be greatly appreciated.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.