My Story…
This May, I’ll be taking on my first marathon at the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, and I couldn’t think of a more meaningful reason to run 26.2 miles than my little sister, Brooke.
Brooke is almost 23 years old and truly one of a kind. She has the most energetic, sparkly personality and a way of bringing so much laughter, love, and happiness to everyone around her. Whether she’s listening to her favorite music, cheering on her beloved Baltimore Orioles, or simply being her funny, loving self, Brooke has a way of making the ordinary moments in life feel special.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve looked up to Brooke. Although I’m her older sister, she has taught me more about life than she probably realizes. She has inspired me to live more carefree, love wholeheartedly, and pursue the things that bring me joy with passion and excitement. Brooke has shown me the importance of embracing who you are, finding happiness in the little things, and never holding back when it comes to the things you love.
One of the things I cherish most about Brooke is that she has always been my biggest cheerleader. Whether it was celebrating a milestone in my life, cheering me on from the sidelines at my softball games, or lifting me up when things didn’t go as planned, Brooke has always been there rooting for me. Through every accomplishment, challenge, and even failure, her love and support have never wavered. She’s celebrated my victories as if they were her own and reminded me that even on the hard days, there’s always something worth smiling about. Now, as I take on one of my biggest challenges yet, it’s my turn to show up for her.
She is unapologetically herself, and that is something I admire more than words can express.
Running a marathon is something I’ve dreamed of doing, and being able to dedicate this experience to someone who has inspired me to pursue my passions makes it even more special. Every mile I run will be a reminder of the joy, strength, and inspiration Brooke brings into my life.
Through this fundraiser, I hope to raise awareness, celebrate individuals with autism, and support a cause that means so much to my family and me.
26.2 miles for the girl who has spent her whole life cheering me on.
Description
Please help support me by making a contribution to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends. Every dollar I raise will advance the Organization for Autism Research's great cause!
WHY RUN FOR AUTISM?
1 in 31 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. By joining the RUN FOR AUTISM team, you’re supporting OAR’s mission to fund research and resources that help people with autism and their families today.
Here are some of the ways that OAR uses the funds raised by the RUN FOR AUTISM team:
$10 - provides a Curriculum in a Box professional development sent to general education teachers.
$25 - provides 15 copies of A Guide to Safety to families and first responders.
$100 - provides the Kit for Kids peer education resource to an entire elementary or middle school.
$150 - provides 100 copies of a Life Journey through Autism guidebook sent to a community support group or military installation.
$1,000 - provides a research grant for a graduate student studying autism.
$3,000 - provides a scholarship for a student with autism to attend college.
$50,000 - fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 28 | Pop Pop and Moey | $213.85 |
| Oct 26 | The Auvil's | $27.48 |
| Oct 24 | The Morrison’s | $54.10 |
| Oct 24 | Jen and Brian | $213.85 |
| Oct 24 | Steve Senft | $27.48 |
| Oct 24 | Joan Wintersteen | $54.10 |
| Oct 24 | Brooke Greaver | $25.00 |
| Oct 24 | Jessica Alascio | $27.48 |
| Oct 23 | Jodie Franklin | $27.48 |
| Oct 23 | Buffie & Woody | $107.35 |