Hi, everyone! On March 17th, I will be running the NYC Half Marathon with the Parkinson’s Foundation, raising money and awareness for Parkinson’s Disease along the way. I had such a special and fun experience last year and am honored to represent this organization again. Like last year, I will be running in memory of my dad, Carlton Gainous.
If you know me, you know my dad was and still is one of my biggest role models. He was kind, charismatic, encouraging, and always met life with a sense of humor and a positive attitude. He always taught me that one of the most important things you can do in life is just show up, for yourself and for others, and even if it means showing up alone.
One of my favorite qualities about my dad was how multi-faceted he was, and how he always had an open mind for new people, places, and experiences. He loved sports and he loved people, evident by his 30+ year career in education, coaching, and high school administration. He also loved movies, books, the theater, and exploring – and for these reasons always had a love for New York City. He was a big influence in my decision to move here – and his spirit gave me the courage to take the risk and make the jump alone.
My dad left this world incredibly too soon in 2017. He received a retrospective diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease in the months following, that provided a small sense of peace and understanding for our family. I choose to run this race in his memory to help raise awareness and resource funds for Parkinson’s Disease to hopefully prevent anyone else from having a missed or late diagnosis, too.
I’ve pledged $1750, and all proceeds will go directly towards the cause. I am honored to represent the Parkinson’s Foundation and run through this city that my dad and I loved so much while doing so.
If you feel compelled to support me, my link is below! Every penny counts and is appreciated greatly!