[ 200 Miles ]

Why Run 200 Miles? 

I first visited the Mexico-USA Border when I was a sophomore in college. I was studying at Boston College, a Jesuit school. A small group of us travelled with Borderlinks. During this trip, my eyes were opened to the injustices that exist across a literal and figurative line drawn in the sand. We went from staying in the humble and hospitable homes of families on the Mexico side of the border to visiting the detention centers of ICE. It was jarring and lodged into my brain as a core moment.

From that trip, I studied in El Salvador at another Jesuit University, the University of Central America (UCA). During this time, we lived and worked in Solidarity with the Salvadoran people. Through these experiences, I decided to become Catholic in my senior year of college. I received the sacraments of Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation when I was 20 years old. The seeds of Catholicism were rooted in knowing Jesus through the most marginalized people in society. 

Fast forward to 2025.  I decided to run across Florida through AR Warrior Races. I knew there would be zero motivation to train for this, especially through the heat of Florida's summer, without a greater cause. I would not be who I am today without the Jesuits. My Catholic faith calls me to serve those who are on the margins of society. Right now, the immigrants and refugees need support. 100% of the funds raised will go towards advocacy, education, and practical needs of refugees and immigrants, through the work of Jesuit Refugee Services.