Hi! Some of you have seen me on my running journey, either training for a race or completing half marathons. Well, now it’s time to level up.

I will be running the New York City marathon on November 7. 26.2 miles through the 5 boroughs on what I hope is a beautiful day. Running the marathon is a bucket list item for me. Once I began running seriously, I knew the marathon would be one of the things I wanted to do. 

I got into running because of my late uncle Carlos. He was an avid runner himself and one day he asked me what I would do after I couldn’t hoop anymore. He told me to consider running as a healthy alternative. Even though I was a sprinter in high school, I hated running long distances. It was boring to me. But I told him I would consider it. 

Running grew on me. I took the time to think about work challenges, life and relationship issues, then came up with ways to solve for them. As I ran more races at varying distances, I got more comfortable with myself and I was ready to run the big one. Covid caused the cancellation of 2020, but we are good to go for 2021.

Like many other runners, I decided to run for a cause to help raise money and awareness. I’m running for Honor Humanity and Girl Scout Troop 6000. Honor Humanity is the organization I  co-founded to make a difference in our underserved communities. Troop 6000 is based in New York City, and supports girls living in the homeless shelters across the city. 

The goal is to raise over $2,500 and split it evenly between the two organizations. There are a few ways you can help if you’re able:

• Buy my limited edition shirt to commemorate this historic run.
• Donate to the Girl Scouts at the link below.
• Donate to Honor Humanity at the link below.

We will keep track of the amount donated here, and I will be sharing my journey to the NYC Marathon, so check back to see the updates. Thanks in advance, I’m looking forward to seeing you out there cheering me on!

Jason aka Mess