My name is Adriana! I served four years in the New York Army National Guard as a Motor Transport Specialist! (Fancy terms for a truck driver) If you ask anyone that knew me when I was a teenager, they would tell you it was a dream of mine to be in the military. I wanted to help people, I wanted to serve the country that I love, and I wanted to have a purpose.

My time in service was nothing short of easy. While in service I decided I wanted to take my own life. The mind of a soldier is a dark place, and there’s no room for weakness, how could I be so weak when I was supposed to be so strong? By the grace of God, I’m here today writing this. By the end of my service, I had extensive damage to my left knee, had surgery, and my doctor told me I was no longer fit to serve, and I would never be able to run again. I quickly became a disabled veteran. I listened for a while. I listened to orders, because that’s what I was taught to do. It brought me down a spiral until I started college.

I started college studying physical education, and worked coaching kids and adolescents all around Long Island. I found a love for sport, teaching, and yet again, making a difference, helping people, and changing lives.

I stated to run again, and instantly said, one day, I will be running the New York City Marathon.

When I opened up my email to see the news that not only would I be running this marathon, I would be representing a charity that helps, and supports veterans around Long Island, I was thrilled! Our local veterans need our help, and they’re not nearly as supported as they should be, and by me doing this, I can bring awareness to the help that they need.

I was told I would never be able to run again, I myself didn’t want to run again, I myself almost ended it all, and yet..

On November 2nd 2026, I will be running for not only myself, but for all the veterans who were told they couldn’t do anything anymore. All the wounded and disabled veterans. All the veterans that deal with the battle in their mind everyday. All the veterans that are no longer with us. All the people that said I could never do this. And, all of my students that look up to me, and encourage me everyday. The most important thing I teach them is to never give up, try your hardest, set goals, and know that even the small wins are big wins. It’s time I show teach them at Ms. E can do that too.

We can do this, and we will do this. It’s our mission, and every mission will always be completed.

I have survived so much. I dealt with the devil and yet God saved my life, and together we will help, and support the veterans of Long Island!

Through Mission United, United Way of Long Island connects veterans to life-changing resources including job training, housing support, financial assistance, and mental health services - helping them transition to civilian life with the respect and support they deserve.

Running 26.2 miles is no easy feat, but I’m doing it with purpose—and I’d be honored to have your support along the way. Your donation will directly impact veterans right here on Long Island by funding programs that:

• Help veterans find stable, meaningful employment

• Provide emergency financial assistance and housing support

• Connect individuals and families with mental health and wellness services

Whether you’re able to contribute financially or simply cheer me on, every bit of support means the world. Thank you so much for considering a gift in support of my run and this incredible cause. Together, we can honor those who’ve served by helping them lead stronger, more stable lives.