Help Daniel Chaplin Raise Money for NDSS!

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I first got interested in running in 2012, when I took a health class at Samford, where the final exam was to complete a 5k. This was really hard for me since I have Down syndrome, but after that, I did many more 5ks, one 10k, and one 5-mile. Then I heard from several friends of mine about the Talladega half marathon. I ended up sleeping for more than 18 hours afterward since I had never run that long of a distance before.

I had read and heard some people talking about a great club, The 50 States Half Marathon Club, which I joined. That is when I started my journey to complete a half marathon in all 50 states. I hope to become the first person with Down syndrome to accomplish this.

All this training and running has changed me in a significant way. Whether it is just standing at the start line of one of my half marathons, standing at the start line of my first ever marathon, or standing at the start line of any race, I break down in tears. I find myself having to fight the tears because I never thought I'd be able to run a half marathon, marathon, or any race since I have had to overcome so many odds and obstacles associated with Down syndrome.

My friends and family have supported me throughout this journey. I would like to encourage people to realize that they have a lot of potential to be successful and that they can do whatever they put their mind to. I believe that I can help people realize their true potential. Everyone who has Down syndrome is very special and can make an impact on this world, whether that is through physical activity or in their own unique ways.

I'm on a mission to show that individuals with Down syndrome really are More Alike Than Different.

My biggest dream is to cross the finish line at the Chicago Marathon!