In February 2025, I'll be heading to Miami to participate in my first 24-Hour Ultraskate, with a goal of skating at least 100 miles. It’s a huge physical and mental challenge—and I can’t wait to give it my all.

But behind the scenes, I’m facing a challenge of a different kind: my ongoing battle with anxiety, especially when it comes to traveling. Longboarding has been more than just a sport for me—it’s been a lifeline, helping me manage my mental health and build resilience.

Looking back, I first experienced anxiety symptoms in my late teens and early twenties, but I didn’t fully recognize them for what they were. For years, I shrugged them off, telling myself to push through without seeking help. It wasn’t until my 30s that I finally sought therapy, learned effective tools, and began to better understand and manage my anxiety.

Even so, anxiety has often held me back from pursuing things I’ve wanted to do in life. That’s why this event is so important to me—it’s a way to push through my fears, celebrate how far I’ve come, and raise awareness about mental health.

In support of this personal journey, I’m raising funds for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. They’re working to increase awareness of how mental health affects physical health, develop new treatments, and one day prevent and cure anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and related disorders.

If you’re able, I’d be incredibly grateful for your support. Together, we can help shine a light on mental health and make a real difference.

Thank you for reading—and for cheering me on as I skate toward this goal, one mile at a time.