Q: When did you first join R4R, and how did you learn about us?
A: I joined R4R in 2019. My husband and our cousin were members, and I was looking for a way to bring my exercise routine to the next level. R4R had something for everyone. I loved the camaraderie and the fact that the organization helped children move into life, so I joined.
Q: What do you enjoy most about Halloween, and how do you like to celebrate?
A: I love all the holidays, including Halloween. I especially enjoy decorating the house both inside and out and creating games for all the trick-or-treaters to play. Seeing the excitement on their faces when they “win” candy is priceless.
Q: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a survivor and ongoing fighter, what would you like our members to know? How has your journey impacted your perspective on life?
A: I am on my second breast cancer journey. As a survivor, I try not to think of my experience as a fight, but rather as an opportunity to take stock of my life and eliminate that which doesn’t serve me, and bring in those things that add value and meaning to my life. I find that living every day in gratitude for what I’ve been given keeps me humble and happy. Life is a gift, and I do my best to remember that on a daily basis.
Q: How do you like to spend your free time? Any hobbies of note?
A: Presently, I have a lot of free time on my hands, which I have had no problem filling. I have so many interests, like going to the gym with my mom, and spending time with friends over coffee or lunch. In the evenings, my husband and I go to the movies, attend R4R Meetups, and we also enjoy all forms of live entertainment. We have also been fortunate enough to take some extended vacations to faraway places. Lately, I’ve been running almost every day to stay healthy and fit.
Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
A: I’ve always considered myself to be an open book, but there is one thing most people may not know about me. I was a concert violinist all my growing up life. I started playing when I was 9 years old. It came naturally to me, and I loved it. Our orchestra entered several competitions and did very well. Even though I don’t play anymore, music is still my passion, and I can’t imagine a world without it.
Q: What has been your proudest moment since being a part of the R4R family?
A: I am so proud of R4R for how much the organization does for the community, and as a Youth Fitness Coach for my school, my proudest moment was watching my students cross that finish line with a real sense of accomplishment on their faces. It literally brought tears to my eyes.
Q: If you were a vegetable, what would you be and why?
A: I’ve never likened myself to a vegetable before, but if I did, I’d have to say I’m the onion. Even though it’s very cliché I would be an onion because there are so many layers to me, and you can’t see them all from the outside.
Q: How would you describe your Runnin’ for Rhett experience to a child?
A: If I were to explain my R4R experience to a child, I would say that Runnin’ for Rhett started as a fun group of people that supported me in accomplishing so much more than I ever knew I was capable of, and I was amazed at my progress. However, R4R has turned out to be so much more. Runnin’ for Rhett has become an extended family who have been there for me every step of the way, through happy times and challenging times. We’ve made many fond memories together, and I will be forever grateful for them.
