Have you ever watched someone running though your neighborhood and wondered if that could be you? I used to do that. My only experience with running was gym class, and we’ll just say I wasn’t a fan.

My feelings about running changed as my son with autism got older. I have that overwhelming special needs parent desire to live forever, and I started looking for activities that helped my overall health. Enter running. I started with a couch to 5k program, which then quickly escalated to longer distances. Not only did I feel like I was doing something physically healthy for me, but I soon found that running was great for my mental health too! It proved to be the rare opportunity where 1) I was usually by myself and 2) it was just me and my thoughts. I’ve been able to think through a lot of problems while out on a run.

Working here at Autism Connection of PA, I’ve been able to take my love of running and use that for fundraising. For the past 8 years, we’ve had a charity team through the Run For A Reason Program with the Pittsburgh Marathon. No, you do not have to run the whole 26.2 miles of the marathon. The great thing about marathon weekend is that you can choose the race that best suits your fitness level. There’s a 5k, marathon relay (for teams of 5), the half marathon, and the full. There are also options for your children with the kids 1 mile run, and even your favorite 4-legged friends with the 1 mile pet walk. Run For A Reason participants can register for the distance that they are comfortable, and then fundraise for us! We send motivational e-newsletters and fun things in the mail. This year, we also have a certified run coach to assist you in your training!

Now seems like a great time to set a goal of participating in a 2021 Pittsburgh Marathon event! Running has grown in popularity, partly because of COVID-19   Run alone or with your family. With my children being home a lot more, my solo runs have turned into fun family time with my children!

Find out more about our team here

If you have questions, email me at [email protected]