This November, I’ll be running the New York City Marathon, but I’m not just running for the challenge. I’m running for a cause that’s personal - Special Olympics New York.

I chose to raise money for this incredible organization because I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it can be. My cousin, Gregory King, has been an active participant in the Special Olympics in his home state of Rhode Island for years.

Gregory is 33 and has lived with Cerebral Palsy since birth, but that has never held him back from chasing his athletic dreams. Gregory is a kid with many talents. Through Special Olympics Rhode Island, he has competed in weightlifting, shot put, and as many track races as they’ll let him sign up for! His determination is unmatched as he steps into any arena.

Outside of the Special Olympics, Gregory is just as active. Whether it’s 18 holes on the golf course or shooting hoops in the driveway with me, he’s always ready to compete. Fun fact - he once won a “closest to the pin” contest at my uncle’s golf club in Rhode Island. The kid can seriously strike the ball!

My support for Special Olympics goes beyond this race. For over a decade, I’ve been involved in local events, and today I proudly serve on the Illinois Special Olympics Young Executive Board. You might recognize some of the major events we help organize throughout Chicago. The Chicago Polar Plunge, which raised over $2 million this year, and the Ducky Derby, where we drop thousands of ducks in the river each and every August!

Running the marathon is an incredible personal goal, but raising funds for this cause makes each mile even more meaningful. Every dollar goes toward helping athletes like Gregory train, compete, and thrive - on and off the field.

Thank you for supporting me, Gregory, and the thousands of athletes whose lives are forever changed by the power of sport and community.