Diana Garcia -                           Paraprofessional at Early Excellence Academy

I love running because running is a sport that keeps my family and friends together. I suffered of plantar fasciitis pain for nine months. The pain was so intense that kept me from walking normally and I had to stay away from running and other sports. I made a promise to myself that I will return to my running and workout habits after I healed. So, on April 28th , 2024, I was able to run for the first time when the pain was more tolerable. My first race was the Vintage 5K run and I was surprised to win the second place in my category. I learned that day that I could achieve more than what I thought was possible. After that race I run four more races last year completing the 2024 Houston run series. I won my category first place at the 5K University of Houston run, I won my category first place at the Cypress 5K run, I won my category first place at Sugar Land 5K run, and additionally I participated with my daughter Angela in the Mud Girl Obstacle Race. 

Running with my husband, my daughter, and my friends gives me a lot of pride and satisfaction. Thinking of the upcoming races feels as exciting as it was the first one. I am looking forward to the 2025 Houston Run Series and the TISD Superintendent's Fun Run.