Help Me Run the New York City Marathon!

Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

My name is Erica, and I’m a 24-year-old singer, actor, and early childhood educator originally from Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. When I was 18, I packed my bags and moved halfway across the world to pursue my dreams in New York City. It’s been a journey filled with growth, challenges, and much learning. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come, but I’m also constantly reminded of the strength it takes to be so far away from my family back home.

This city has tested me in ways I never could’ve imagined. There have been many sleepless nights, moments of doubt, and times when I wished I could be with my loved ones on the island. But through it all, I’ve kept pushing forward—doing what I love in the big city: teaching, performing and auditioning. Now, I’m about to take on one of the biggest challenges of my life—the 2025 New York City Marathon!

This past year, I qualified for the marathon through the New York Road Runners’ 9+1 Program, which means I completed nine qualifying races and volunteered at one event. It was a huge milestone for me, and now, I’m ready to take on the race itself!

I’ve been running seriously for just over a year now, and it’s been an incredibly transformative experience. I’m still new to running, with so much to learn, but each race has taught me perseverance, resilience, and the power of pushing through tough moments. Running isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about mental and emotional strength, and honestly, I need all of that right now.

Between being a full-time student, juggling multiple jobs, and working as a performer in NYC, life is a constant balancing act. I recently moved apartments to save money because things have been tight. But despite the challenges, I am determined to run this marathon. It’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about proving to myself that no matter how tough life gets, I can push through and keep going.

The entry fee for the marathon is $315, and I’m hoping to raise $600 to cover the fee, as well as help me buy the necessary gear—running shoes, outfits, and accessories for my training and the race. Any extra funds will make sure I’m equipped and ready to take on this challenge.

This marathon means more to me than just a race. It represents my journey—one of strength, resilience, and personal growth. I’ve faced struggles, particularly with my weight and my health, especially after undergoing major ovarian cyst surgery in 2021. Hormonal issues have made it tough to lose weight, but running has given me a sense of hope and purpose. It shows me that no matter what I see in the mirror, I am capable of far more than I ever imagined.

But I’m doing this not only for myself. The strength I take with me to the finish line involves the very special people in my life—my mom, dad, and brothers, my boyfriend Matt and his family, our two parakeets, Barry and Felix, our dog, Suki, and my small circle of friends. They are my foundation, my motivation, and my unwavering support. I am so incredibly thankful to them all.

I would be so grateful for your support in making this dream a reality. Every donation, no matter how small, will help me get one step closer to that starting line in November 2025. If you can’t donate, sharing this page or sending me words of encouragement would mean the world to me.

Thank you so much for being a part of this journey. With your help, I can prove to myself that anything is possible.

With all my love and gratitude,

Erica Faye

#NYCMarathon2025 #RoadToNYC #SaipanToNYC #StrengthInEveryStep #NewRunner #NYRR #9plus1