20 fucking miles. I did it. Holy shit.
On August 2, 2025, I did something I never thought I'd do. I participated in the Mammoth March at Burr Oak State Park and completed 20+ miles in under 9 hours! 20 MILES up and down mountains, through rocky terrain, mud, creeks...
1,300 hikers participated. 693 finished.
Sometimes I forget what this body and mind is capable of. This year has been the hardest year of my life. My world flipped upside down in December. I was completely broken. Shortly after, I was diagnosed with an incurable health condition that I have been navigating and coping with. I haven't been able to train the way that I wanted to. A week before this huge event- I had one of my worst flare ups yet. I seriously considered dropping out- but I didn't.
My friend Samantha and I were in this thing together and I honestly can't imagine taking on this challenge with anyone else! This March took extreme physical and mental toughness. I would not have been able to do it without her love and support. Two badass, strong and determined women side by side- one step at a time.
I want to dedicate this medal to my children.
To Otto, Ancil and Fern: You can do anything you set your mind to. It doesn't matter what you have been through, what your body looks like, or how old you are. You can and will accomplish amazing things! You are stronger than you think and more capable than you know. You are the light that kept me going. Every time I wanted to stop- at mile 10... 15...16, 17, 18, 19- I pictured your sweet faces. You are my reason; forever and always.
