Gabriel and Kara met by chance on the El Camino in Spain. Both of them intended to trek the legendary route in northern Spain. Gabriel dreamed of reaching it all the way to Santiago despite having cerebral palsy. Kara met him as he and his group were eating breakfast and she was automatically taken by his spirit, zest for life, and resiliency for taking on the nearly 500 mile path. A conversation ensued and the group asked her if she would like to walk with them for the day. It was an easy “yes” for her. She had the chance to push Gabriel for 13k. They passed by rolling fields of wheat beneath blue skies and talked the whole time.

During their walk, Kara realized Gabriel had hopes and dreams for making his life rich with experiences. He had no time to wallow in the fact he had cerebral palsy. He was too busy trying to make life a beautiful adventure. She decided she would help him to do just that. The first thing that came into her mind was that they should do a marathon together. Gabriel loved the idea and another one of his dreams was born. He couldn’t contain his excitement and he asked if they would truly do it one day. She promised him that they would no matter what.

A marathon is the ultimate expression of the human spirit. It’s a way to go beyond what you think you are capable of. The race gives you something to strive for, look forward to, and dream about. Crossing the finish line makes you feel like anything is possible. Gabriel deserves to feel everything a marathon has to offer. Please help Kara and Gabriel fulfill their dreams of doing a marathon together. They are planning to run the Durham Marathon in Gabriel's home state of North Carolina.

The money raised will go towards travel costs and everything involved in getting Gabriel to the start line. Thank you for helping to make this dream a reality. With every act of kindness, they will continue to feel inspired and that anything is possible!