I've been a runner for over 10 years, but have been into ultra trail running the past few years. My farthest attempt with the 100 miler in 2016 at which I DNF'd due to a total mental and physical melt down. This year, that DNF hangs over my head and I must reach this goal. While pondering the dreadful idea of running 100 miles again, I started to think of ways to get outside myself and put all these miles to good use. The thought of spending 30 hours on a trail feels a bit less daunting when you are doing it for something bigger than yourself, so I've decided to raise money for communites in need. The philanthropic project that I am most passionate about is Nets for Africa, built by my company Ker & Downey and Holy Apostles church in Katy, TX. For the past decade, Nets for Africa has purchased mosquito nets, medical supplies and has employed local doctors in Uganda and Kenya for a week of giving back to remote communities who may not have access to medicine or routine doctor visits. Malaria attacks more than 40% of the population and is the leading killer of children in Africa. The most effective way to prevent malaria is to sleep under a treated net. Something as simple as a $7 net can prolong the life of an entire family.
This year, I have the privledge of going on the trip and to be of service in person. For 2018, our goal is to host 18,000 people and provide them with life-saving doctor visits, blood tests, and mosquito nets for their homes. Our trip will take place in October where I hope to help improve lives and hear stories from a part of Africa that many don't get to see. It is a journey I will not take lightly. I'm asking for donations to support our cause and I'll do so by completing ultras throughout the year. My next race is the Alamo City Ultra 50K on September 1, 2018, I hope you will follow along, I know I will push harder knowing that I have all of your support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
