For the past four years, I’ve tried to run the NYC Marathon. I came close a few times but, somehow, it never happened. Now I understand why.

I didn’t yet have a real purpose that would carry me through 26.2 miles.

A year and a half ago, while pregnant with my second child, we learned that our son would need physical therapy early in life. We didn’t know when and if he would reach certain milestones, and moments many parents take for granted became the biggest victories for us.

We are incredibly lucky to have met extraordinary people along this journey who dedicate their lives to helping children like Richard thrive. The specialists at Hospital for Special Surgery Pediatric Rehabilitation Center are among them. Every day they work with children who are learning the hardest things most of us never have to think about — how to stand, how to walk, how to feed themselves. Witnessing these little warriors fight for each milestone tirelessly every day was life changing for me.

This year, I am finally running the New York City Marathon — for the doctors and therapists who change lives, for families navigating the unknown, and most importantly, I’m running for children like my baby boy, Richard. If you feel moved by this story, I invite you to support the mission of helping children reach milestones that once seemed impossible.

Every donation — large or small — directly supports the care, therapies, and resources that give these children the opportunity to live fuller, more independent lives. Because for some families, a child’s first step is not just a milestone. It’s a miracle.

Thank you for supporting this cause and for being part of Richard’s journey ❤️