Always an athlete but never a runner!

We absolutely love to receive stories from people who have found their perfect "pair".  May I introduce you to Erin!  Welcome to the family Erin.  We couldn't agree more.  Her story is below.

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"Always an athlete but never a runner, I started running with the purpose of losing weight with an activity I was never excited about. Training runs in college were my least favorite, especially when they were timed. I always said I'd rather do 50 sprints than run a mile straight. Despite it all, I knew deep down running would change me, and it has. It has changed me physically, mentally and now it's changing how I look at the world. 

In December 2016, my mother was diagnosed with Parkinson's. I knew this was life changing but in all honesty, I had no idea what that meant. Through tears I asked, 'what does that mean?' It meant she was going to struggle with some physical aspects of life, the disease progression was unknown and there is presently no known cure. Not great news.

My Mom is a strong woman whether she realizes it or not. The thought of any kind of physical struggle was the part I initially struggled with and without knowing much about the disease, I took to the internet. I read case studies, articles, symptoms, 'what to watch for' tips but I always came back to The Michael J. Fox Foundation as my primary resource. There was even a section for those like me who did not have the disease but someone they love did. I couldn't help but think how wonderful this was and in navigating through the site I eventually came across Team Fox.

So what started with a Google search ended with an Email to Team Fox inquiring about spots on their Chicago Marathon team. Within 48 hours of my Mom's news, I sent in my pledge form as the newest member of Team Fox. 

Representing Team Fox has provided me with an outlet and has also allowed my Mom to embrace Parkinson's. When I made it public that I was running for Team Fox, I never put my 'why' out there. Though my inner circle of friends and family knew the reason, it wasn't public knowledge. I wanted my Mom to embrace this as part of her journey as well. I constantly shared with her. Every time a donation was made, I ran, received a Team Fox Email, when I decided to have my first event, etc. Eventually, she allowed me to share my 'why' and I am so happy she did. Because of this experience, I believe my family turned this into something we can smile about instead of cry.

Being a member of Team Fox means you are not only running for your loved ones, but everyone's. It has provided me with a refreshed outlook on life, charity, friends and family. I already feel connected to my team members even though I have never met any of them in person yet. There's an unspoken connection we all have and I am so happy to have found this team."