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Family and friends,
This July, I'm taking on my very first San Francisco Marathon across hills, wind, and the iconic Golden Gate on July 26, 2026!
Why do I run?
My journey into running began nearly three years ago following a series of unexpected life events that took a toll on my emotional and mental well-being. Previously, I never considered running an option… my asthma made it difficult to manage my breathing…. and let’s face it, running is challenging! Nevertheless, I wanted to push my limits and utilize running as my form of therapy and a way to cope… I aimed to harness my own body and spirit… as the source of strength and healing. I would train, cry, and wrestle with all aspects of running, but each time I crossed the finish line… I would catch a glimpse of a better version of myself… a strong and accomplished woman…such an incredibly fulfilling experience, transforming my tears into tears of happiness, affection, hope, and a pathway to recovery. This serves as a reminder that even in the bleakest times, I have the strength to endure and rise once more. With love and compassion, I find the resilience to thrive again. Every race has empowered me to continue pushing forward! As women, we carry a significant, often invisible, "mental load" and "double burden," whether it involves managing the household, caregiving, and emotional labor alongside professional career responsibilities, all while navigating life and its accompanying challenges. It's a demanding responsibility!
What inspired me?
Throughout my running journey, I’ve encountered runners of all ages and abilities overcoming obstacles with a shared objective: to set aside life’s challenges temporarily and concentrate on their target, persevering through every mile until they reach the finish line. For many, it’s less about the time and more about the gratifying sensation of being part of something greater than oneself. I've also noticed supporters lining the streets, cheering and motivating all the runners with enthusiastic shout-outs and amusing race signs… their presence is irreplaceable. These moments remind me in every race that I’m never alone; that life mirrors a race with its highs and lows, where some miles seem eternal while others pass by effortlessly. Ultimately, it’s about how you manage those challenges and how you emerge from them.
How can you support me?
Running 26.2 miles is something I never imagined I would commit to; it requires dedication, sacrifice, and passion. I want my daughters to witness what it means to show up, overcome challenges, and keep moving forward—even when it's tough— and I'm ready to prove to myself just how far l've come. I’m not an athlete, nor have I ever considered myself athletic; I’m simply a woman, a mother, and a wife who chose to believe that we're all stronger than we think. I’ve participated in several races, including three half-marathons, and I’m preparing for my fourth one in Oakland, March 2026. l had love your support as I chase down this goal-whether it's a few encouraging words, sharing this page, or sponsoring me on this journey. Every bit helps and means more than you know!
Your contributions will go towards all registration fees, as I have a few races to complete before the big day and help cover some training essentials. The extra funds will go towards a donation for Girls on the Run of the Bay Area. This is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designed to enhance participants' social, emotional and physical skills to successfully navigate life experiences. Their vision is “A world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.” In March of this year, my daughter and I will be participating in their program and running the 5K for the third time, as I feel it’s important to cultivate these emotional and physical skills early on.
I appreciate you taking the time to read this, and I aspire to motivate many of you! It’s never too late to start a new journey, and always remember that your body is capable of incredible things when you provide it with the love and care it deserves!
Love,
Andrea A.C.